Abstract:
A sanitation tray system for medical, laboratory, and industrial equipment. This system is modular, stackable, and user customizable. It may be assembled in any number of horizontal or vertical configurations depending on the user&#39;s needs and is capable of permitting instruments of varying heights, lengths and widths to be sanitized simultaneously. It is easily assemblable and disassemblable and includes a rack, corners, sides, and dowels. It is light-weight, easy to manufacture, easy to ship, and economical. It is designed to use the least amount of surface area to allow for maximum permeation of sterilants and minimizes the opportunity for pooling of sterilants or retention of particulate matter while decreasing drying time.

Description:
[0001]    This application is a non-provisional of, and claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional application No. 61/261,320 filed on Nov. 14, 2009. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates generally to the field of sanitation and more specifically relates to sanitation trays. 
         [0003]    2. Description of the Related Art 
         [0004]    Trays are used to hold laboratory equipment and instruments as they are put through a sanitation/sterilization cycle in a machine such as a dishwasher or an autoclave. These types of trays are commonly used in hospitals, laboratories, and other industrial settings. A typical tray suited for this purpose usually comprises sides and a bottom and occasionally a lid and is generally designed to fit inside a sanitizing machine such as an autoclave or dishwasher. Equipment and instruments used in laboratory or hospital settings such as an operating room are commonly made of a sturdy material such as stainless steel. These tools are designed to be reused once they have gone through a rigorous sanitation process to remove chemical or organic material and pathogens after use. Sanitation machines such as autoclaves or dishwashers are designed to accommodate a variety of tools that are different shapes and sizes and numbers. Typical tools include surgical instruments such as scalpels, hemostats, needles or probes, and glassware such as Ehrlenmeyer flasks, beakers, or cylinders. The above mentioned equipment must be sanitized before and after being used. This is usually accomplished by placing the equipment or instrument in a tray and subjecting the equipment or instrument to a sanitation protocol (such as exposure to extreme temperatures, detergents, or chemicals) for a period of time. 
         [0005]    Current sanitization trays are typically one-piece constructions with vent holes that do not have sufficient porosity to permit heat, steam, and other sterilants to permeate the system thoroughly. This also permits sterilants to pool around the instruments within the system, which decreases proper sanitation and increases drying time. Another significant problem with current sanitation tray systems is that particulate matter and blood borne pathogens are not sufficiently removed because there is a significant amount of surface area within the system such that particulate matter (which can include blood borne pathogens or other contaminants and biohazardous material) can pool or get caught in the tray and remain after sanitizing is complete. 
         [0006]    Various attempts have been made to provide an effective means for sanitization using a tray. These attempts do not provide adequate means for sterilant flow because they are formed from sheets of material with a number of holes in them. This results in inadequate sanitization and pooling of sterilants and increases the risk of contamination when the tray is removed from the sanitizing means. These attempts also not user customizable nor are they readily assemblable or disassemblable, nor can the dimensions be user-specified. 
         [0007]    For example, some sanitation trays include a floor fitted into a base and holders to secure instrumentation inside. However, these types of trays have certain disadvantages. They are not modular, stackable with other sizes of trays, nor are they customizable according to user specifications. Further, typical sanitation trays are molded or cut out from a solid piece of material (such as a sheet of metal or block of plastic) whereby portions are carved away until a tray is formed. Sanitation is achieved via these holes. In contrast, the modular sanitation tray is created from empty space using only the minimal amount of material needed to give support to the instruments therein. 
         [0008]    Current attempts at stackable trays are similarly flawed. They are not user customizable nor are they modular. Further, these trays are commonly “one size fits all”, meaning that the user of a tray is limited to the number and type of instruments he may cleanse in a single cycle of his particular type of sanitation machine. Thus, there is a need for the user to be able to customize his sanitation tray to accommodate his particular set of laboratory equipment. Further, these trays are typically made of a solid piece of metal with holes drilled for aeration. This method of construction similarly has the disadvantage of an increased surface area which increases the opportunity for pooling sterilants and particulate matter retention as well as decreased drying time. None of the current sanitation trays available sufficiently overcomes the problem of an increased surface area nor are they readily assemblable and disassemblable. Further, they cannot be customized the user&#39;s specifications. Ideally, a sanitation tray system should operate reliably as a safe storage means for laboratory and medical equipment as it undergoes the sanitation process. At the same time, a need exists for a durable, customizable, modular system that minimizes the surface area such equipment remains in contact with during the sanitation process. 
         [0009]    Thus, what is needed is a sanitation tray system that permits the user to select the size and shape of the system to accommodate his or her individual needs that can be manufactured at a modest expense. There is a need for a sanitation tray that is durable, lightweight, cheap, easy to use, and customizable with surface area to maximize sanitation and minimize drying time. There is also a need for a tray system that permits the user to sanitize many instruments of varying shapes and sizes at the same time without jeopardizing sanitation or sacrificing drying time. 
         [0010]    The current invention overcomes these problems in several ways. Ideally, a sanitation tray system should be cheap and easy to manufacture and be customizable to the user&#39;s specifications. It should be easily assemblable and disassemblable and incorporate as little surface area as possible to reduce the risks of pooled sterilants and/or left-behind particulate matter. Thus, a need exists for a customizable sanitation tray that can maximize sterilant flow without sacrificing structural integrity and be manufactured at modest expense, easy to ship, and easy to assemble and/or disassemble according to the user&#39;s specific needs. 
         [0011]    One of the purposes of modular sanitation tray system is to maximize sanitation. One of the ways the system accomplishes this goal is to reduce the amount of surface area in the system. In this manner, the opportunity for residual contaminants and improper cleansing is decreased, while the “total kill” potential of the sanitation machine and the modular sanitation tray system is maximized to allow for complete sanitation. Another purpose of modular sanitation tray system is to provide an easily assemblable tray system that is capable of simultaneously sanitizing groups of laboratory equipment that vary in size, shape, and height. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0012]    Accordingly, it is a primary object of the present invention to overcome the aforementioned problems and disadvantages of the related art. Another object of the present invention is to provide a modular, stacking sanitation tray system having enhanced sanitation capabilities and decreased drying time as compared to related art stacking sanitation tray systems, and which provides quick assembly, user customization, decreased shipping costs, and the ability to sanitize instruments of differing sizes at the same time. It should be understood that the present invention is capable of use in equipment that is capable of use in both sanitizing and sterilizing laboratory equipment. The terms can be used interchangeably or to define levels of disinfection. For purposes of clarification, when the term “sanitize” is used to describe the system, it is contemplated within the current invention to provide a tray system that is capable of both “sterilizing” and “sanitizing” laboratory equipment, e.g. removing contaminants and cleaning and/or a “total kill” of all pathogens. 
         [0013]    The present invention provides a modular, user-customizable storage, transportation and sanitation tray system for equipment. It provides a safe, effective, convenient, and economical system to accommodate a number of different types of equipment of various shapes and sizes in need of sanitization. A single unit of this system includes a rack, corners, sides, and a plurality of dowels. A single unit of this system may optionally include a plurality of handles, a plurality of holders, and/or a plurality of covers. These units may function as a single unit or a plurality of these units can function in concert to provide a user with any desired configuration of trays to her sanitation needs. 
         [0014]    Within a single unit, the corners and sides are attached to each other with the dowels. The dowels may connect a corner piece to another corner piece, a side piece to a corner piece, and/or a side piece to another side piece in a horizontal configuration to permit the user to create a tray system that best serves his or her sanitation needs. A rack may be removably positioned in grooves within the corner or side piece(s). Each corner or side piece may also include a male and/or female coupling element that allows the user to stack the unit on top of another unit. At least one of the surfaces may have any number of holders for securing instruments horizontally or vertically. The holders may be positioned within the system to accommodate the equipment in need of sanitization. A single unit may also attach to another unit to form a system wherein the user specifies the overall shape, height, length, and/or width of the system. In an assembled configuration, equipment within the tray system is stabilized for easy transport into and out of the sanitation machine or in and around the facility at which it is used. 
         [0015]    Accordingly, it is an object of this invention to provide a sanitation tray system which is for medical, laboratory, or industrial equipment and which is customized to the individual user&#39;s specifications. Still another object of this invention is to provide a sanitation tray system that minimalizes drying time and the potential for pooled sterilants, accumulation of particulate matter and/or blood borne pathogens, and maximizes sanitation of the instrument by using as little solid matter in its construction. A further object of this invention is to provide a method of sanitizing instruments that can be arranged vertically and horizontally. Still another object of this invention is to provide a sanitation tray system that is economical to manufacture, easy and economical to ship, easy to use, modular, stackable, and is readily assemblable and disassemblable. Other features, objects, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0016]      FIG. 1  shows a perspective view of modular sanitation tray system  100  of the present invention. Also shown is an exploded view of a corner receiver  210 ; three first dowel  225  (both discussed in further detail in  FIG. 2 ); side receiver  410 ; and second dowel  419  (both discussed in further detail in  FIG. 4 ). Examples of laboratory equipment frequently sanitized are shown within the tray. 
           [0017]      FIG. 2  shows a perspective view of first tray  200  of modular sanitation tray system  100 . An exploded view of corner receiver  210  is also shown. 
           [0018]      FIG. 3  shows a perspective view of a vertical arrangement of two (2) first tray  200  modular sanitation tray system  100 . For exemplary means of an in-use condition, an Erlenmeyer flask, and a scalpel are shown. 
           [0019]      FIG. 4  illustrates a perspective view of second tray  400  of modular sanitation tray system  100 . An exploded view of side receiver  410  is also shown. For exemplary means of an in-use condition, hemostats and a saw are shown. 
           [0020]      FIG. 5  illustrates the kit of the tray system of  FIG. 1  in an in-use condition. 
           [0021]      FIG. 6  shows a method of use of the sanitation tray system of  FIGS. 1 through 5 . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0022]    Referring now to  FIG. 1 , showing a perspective view of modular sanitation tray system  100  of the present invention. Also shown is an exploded view of a corner receiver  210 ; three first dowel  225  (both discussed in further detail in  FIG. 2 ); side receiver  410 ; and second dowel  419  (both discussed in further detail in  FIG. 4 ). Examples of laboratory equipment frequently sanitized are shown within the tray. Modular sanitation tray system  100  comprises at least one first tray  200 ; optionally, at least one second tray  400 , and optionally at least one rack  250 . Modular sanitation tray system  100  may further comprise an optional instrument holder  260 ; and an optional handle  405  (shown and discussed in  FIGS. 4 and 5 ). Finally, modular sanitation tray system  100  may optionally comprise a cover (not shown) for added protection and increased sanitation capacity of modular sanitation tray system  100 . 
         [0023]    Within the present figure, modular sanitation tray system  100  is shown in an in-use condition whereby laboratory equipment is substantially secured within first tray  200  and second tray  400  of modular sanitation tray system  100 . Laboratory equipment may comprise surgical instrumentation, glassware, containers, reagents, or any other items in need of sanitation. First tray  200  and second tray  400  are capable of being removably attached to one another via corner receiver  210  and/or side receiver  410 . In this manner, the components of modular sanitation tray system  100  are user customizable and function to reduce overall surface area and optimize sanitization within any standard laboratory machine suited for such purpose, such as an autoclave, dishwasher, oven, or other equipment. For exemplary means of an in-use condition, hemostats and a saw are shown in second tray  400 , while an Erlenmeyer flask and a scalpel are shown in first tray  200 . 
         [0024]    It should be understood that the shape and dimensions of modular sanitation tray system  100  are user customizable and that the dimensions are within the acceptable limits as determined by Deutsch Industry Norm (“DIN”) standards. Further, each individual component of modular sanitation tray  100  (discussed in detail below) may comprise any material designed to withstand the high temperatures of standard sanitation equipment (such as an autoclave, dishwasher, or oven) including, but not limited to, metals or metal alloys, stainless steel, aluminum, polymers or any other material suitable for such purpose. Within the present embodiment shown, modular sanitation tray system  100  comprises Radel® due to its structural stability, tolerance of high temperatures, ease of manufacture, and cost effectiveness. 
         [0025]    As mentioned above, modular sanitation tray system  100  may further comprise a cover (not shown) for added protection and increased sanitation capacity of modular sanitation tray system  100 . The dimensions of the cover are sufficient to cover all or a portion of modular sanitation tray system  100 , such as, for example, the cover may cover first tray  200  and/or second tray  400 . The cover may be affixed to any portion of modular sanitation tray system  100  via friction fit, clamps, screws, brads, pins, rivets, grommets, adhesives, or any other suitable means necessary to affix the cover to modular sanitation tray  110 . The cover may comprise any material designed to withstand the high temperatures of standard sanitation equipment (such as an autoclave, dishwasher, or oven) including, but not limited to, metals or metal alloys, stainless steel, aluminum, polymers or any other material suitable for such purpose. 
         [0026]    Referring now to  FIG. 2 , illustrating first tray  200  of modular sanitation tray system  100 . An exploded view of corner receiver  210  is also shown. First tray  200  comprises at least one corner receiver  210  and a plurality of first dowel  225 . Optionally, first tray  200  may further comprise rack  250  and/or instrument holder  260 . By way of example,  FIG. 2  illustrates first tray  200  comprising: one (1) rack  250 ; one (1) instrument holder  260 ; four (4) corner receiver  210  having with six (6) first aperture  220  each (for a total of twenty-four (24) first aperture  220 ), and twelve (12) first dowel  225 . It should be understood that the dimensions of first tray  200  are user customizable accommodate his or her own laboratory equipment and to fit within his or her own sterilization machine. As a result, the numbers of rack  250 , instrument holder  260 , corner receiver  210 , first aperture  220 , and first dowel  225  will vary according to the user&#39;s needs. In this manner, first tray  200  is not limited to the dimensions and components as depicted in  FIG. 2 . It should further be understood that first tray  200  is configured to accommodate several pieces of laboratory equipment of varying shapes, sizes, heights, volumes, and materials. By way of example,  FIG. 2  illustrates a scalpel and hemostats secured via instrument holder  260  within first tray  200 . First tray  200  may comprise any material designed to withstand the high temperatures of standard sanitation equipment (such as an autoclave, dishwasher, or oven) including, but not limited to, metals or metal alloys, stainless steel, aluminum, polymers or any other material suitable for such purpose. Within the present embodiment shown, the components of first tray  200  comprise Radel® due to its structural stability, tolerance of high temperatures, ease of manufacture, and cost effectiveness. 
         [0027]    Corner receiver  210  may comprise first aperture  220 ; at least one male coupler  230 ; at least one female coupler  235 ; a plurality of slot  270 ; and at least one groove  240 . Corner receiver  210  may further comprise a substantially angular configuration that is less than, but not equal to, 180 degrees. By way of example, corner receiver  210  is shown at an approximately 160 degree angle.  FIG. 2  further depicts corner receiver  210  with rounded edges. It should be understood that the corner receiver  210  may be convex, concave, pointed, or any other configuration sufficient to house first aperture  220 . In this manner, corner receiver  210  works with first aperture  220  and first dowel  225  to enclose rack  250  as shown. Corner receiver  210  may be removably attached to another corner receiver  210  via first dowel  225  which may be placed in first aperture  220  to form the outer confines first tray  200 . In this manner, a substantially quadrangular configuration is created with an inner volume sufficient to house the items to be sanitized. 
         [0028]    Corner receiver  210  may further be comprised of a plurality of slot  270 . Slot  270  may traverse corner receiver  210  as shown. In this manner, slot  270  further decreases the surface area of corner receiver  210  to decrease the overall surface area of modular sanitation tray system  100 . In this manner, slot  270  of corner receiver  210  within first tray  200  of modular sanitation tray system  100  decreases the surface area laboratory instruments remain in contact with during the sanitation process and, as a result, significantly decreases the opportunity for contamination from residual pathogens, and increases the completeness of the sanitation process by maximizing the flow of sterilants. 
         [0029]    Corner receiver  210  may further comprise at least one male coupler  230  and/or at least one female coupler  235  to allow vertical stacking of at first tray  200  and/or second tray  400  (discussed in further detail in  FIGS. 3 ,  4  and  5 ). Male coupler  230  may be an appendage of corner receiver  210  and/or side receiver  410 . Further, male coupler  230  may be any type of outgrowth sufficient to create a secure hold with female coupler  235 . Male coupler  230  may further serve the purpose of elevating modular tray system  100  from the substrate of the sanitation machine, thereby maximizing the surface area sterilants are able to permeate modular sanitation tray system  100 .  FIG. 2  depicts male coupler  230  substantially on the underside of corner receiver  210  as shown. In an alternative embodiment, male coupler  230  may be placed on or near the top or on the sides of corner receiver  210  (not shown). 
         [0030]    Female coupler  235  may comprise a depression, divot, concavity, or any other indentation sufficient to removably receive male coupler  230 . The dimensions of female coupler  235  are directly proportional to and/or complementary to the dimensions of male coupler  230  such that first tray  200  is capable of being removable attached to second tray  400  using male coupler  230  and/or female coupler  235  as a securing means. Further, female coupler  235  further decreases the surface area of corner receiver  210  to decrease the overall surface area of modular sanitation tray system  100 . In this manner, first tray  200  of modular sanitation tray system  100  maximizes sanitation of laboratory equipment and significantly decreases the opportunity for contamination from residual pathogens while increasing completeness of the sanitation process by maximizing the flow of sterilants. 
         [0031]    Corner receiver  210  may further comprise at least on first aperture  220  and at least one first dowel  225 . Preferably, corner receiver  210  has a plurality of first aperture  220  to provide suitable frictional securing means for first dowel  225 . First aperture  220  may comprise a substantially cylindrical inner volume sufficient to removably receive first dowel  225 . Finally, first aperture  220  may be located on the proximal or distal portion of corner receiver  210 . 
         [0032]    First dowel  225  may comprise a rod within the particular embodiment shown. In this manner, first dowel  225  fits into first aperture  220  in a manner that creates an angle sufficient to create a poly-sided configuration of modular sanitation tray system  100  (discussed in detail in  FIG. 5 ).  FIG. 2  depicts first dowel  225  and first aperture  220  in a substantially cylindrical configuration, however, it should be understood that the shape of first dowel  225  and first aperture  220  may be of any shape sufficient to provide a border to first tray  200 , such as, for example, a rectangular or triangular bar. It is contemplated within the current invention that varying shapes may be created by varying the number of dowels and receivers. 
         [0033]    As mentioned above, first dowel  225  may comprise a circumferential outer volume that is substantially proportional to the volume of first aperture  220  to permit first dowel  225  to form a friction fit within the inner volume of first aperture  220  of corner receiver  210 . In this configuration, first dowel  225  and corner receiver  210  operate to create a secure enclosure using the least amount of surface area possible while still maintaining structural integrity. Corner receiver  210  may be removably attached to another corner receiver  210  via first dowel  225  which may be placed in first aperture  220  to form the outer confines of modular sanitation tray  110  as shown, resulting in a substantially quadrangular configuration of first tray  200 . In this manner, first tray  200  functions to house the items to be sanitized. It should be understood that corner receiver  210 , first aperture  220 , and first dowel  225  may work in concert to create the outer perimeter of first tray  200 . By way of example, first tray  200  is shown in a substantially square shape. Finally, first dowel  225  further accomplishes the goal of reducing the overall surface area of first tray  200  while still maintaining its structural stability. In this manner, first dowel  225  functions as an integral unit of first tray  200  within modular sanitation tray system  100  to decrease drying time and minimize retention of contaminants once the sanitation process is complete. As a result, the opportunity for improper sanitation and residual contaminants is significantly decreased. 
         [0034]    Corner receiver  210  may further comprise at least one groove  240  for removably receiving a plurality of rack  250 . Groove  240  may positioned substantially near the bottom of corner receiver  210  as shown. The dimensions of groove  240  are proportional to rack  250  so as to permit it first rack  250  to form a friction fit groove  240  of corner receiver  210  as shown. Rack  250  fits into groove  240  in a similar manner as that of a dado joint. In other embodiments, rack  250  may be attached to corner receiver  210  in any manner sufficient to accomplish a secured hold such as clamps, brads, snaps, pegs, hooks, ties, or other suitable attaching means. Further, it should be understood that other joints such as tongue and groove, dovetail, box, finger, or any other suitable type of fastening means may be used to accomplish a secure assembly of groove  240  and rack  250 . In other embodiments, groove  240  may be located in any portion of corner receiver  210  to function as a receiving means for rack  250 , such as, for example, the top or middle of corner receiver  210  Groove  240  further serves to decrease the overall weight of modular sanitation tray system  100  and increases the frictional surface area for maximum retention of rack  250 . 
         [0035]    Optionally, first tray  200  may further comprise rack  250 . Rack  250  as shown comprises a substantially grid-like arrangement. It should be understood that rack  250  may be any framework capable of supporting instrument holder  260  and/or laboratory equipment within first tray  200 . In this manner, rack  250  accomplishes the goal of providing a substrate for instrument holder  260  for securing laboratory equipment in need of sanitizing within modular sanitation tray system  100 . Rack  250  further accomplishes the goal of reduced surface area to minimize retention of contaminants once the sanitation process is complete and to reduce the overall weight, cost of manufacture, and shipping costs of modular sanitation tray system  100 . Finally, rack  250  may comprise any material designed to withstand the high temperatures of standard sanitation equipment (such as an autoclave, dishwasher, or oven) including, but not limited to, metals or metal alloys, stainless steel, aluminum, polymers or any other material suitable for such purpose. Within the present embodiment shown, modular sanitation tray system  100  comprises Radel® due to its structural stability, tolerance of high temperatures, ease of manufacture, and cost effectiveness. 
         [0036]    Optionally, modular sanitation tray system  100  may further comprise at least one instrument holder  260  for horizontally and/or vertically holding at least one piece of laboratory equipment within modular sanitation tray system  100 . In alternative embodiments, instrument holder  260  may be affixed to first dowel  225  (not shown). Instrument holder  260  may comprise biasing means as shown. In alternative embodiments instrument holder  260  may further comprise latching means, clamping means, or other such suitable methods of securing an item within modular sanitation tray system  100 . 
         [0037]    As mentioned above, instrument holder  260  of modular sanitation tray system  100  may be used to vertically and/or horizontally secure laboratory equipment within modular sanitation tray system  100 . By way of example,  FIG. 2  depicts instrument holder  260  securing hemostats and a scalpel in a horizontal position within first tray  200 . Items to be sanitized are placed on or in instrument holder  260  which may be attached to rack  250 , corner receiver  210 , side receiver  410  or any other suitable portion of modular sanitation tray  100  to accomplish the task of securing items within the system as they undergo sanitization. In alternative embodiments, instrument holder  260  may be a spring fit, clasp, adhesives, or any other suitable configuration to accomplish the task of securing items within modular sanitation tray  110 . Further, instrument holder  260  may be attached to any portion of second tray  400  via clamps, screws, brads, pins, rivets, grommets, adhesives, or any other suitable means necessary to affix instrument holder  260  first tray  200 . Finally, instrument holder  260  may comprise any material designed to withstand the high temperatures of standard sanitation equipment (such as an autoclave, dishwasher, or oven) including, but not limited to, metals or metal alloys, stainless steel, aluminum, polymers or any other material suitable for such purpose. 
         [0038]    Referring now to  FIG. 3 , showing a perspective view of a vertical arrangement of two (2) first tray  200  of modular sanitation tray system  100 . As discussed above, corner receiver  210  may comprise male coupler  230  and female coupler  235 . Within this optional embodiment, first tray  200  may be removably attached to another first tray  200  on the vertical axis via male coupler  230  and female coupler  235 . In this manner, a plurality of corner receiver  210  may be vertically stacked whereby male coupler  230  engages female coupler  235  as shown. In this manner, the user is capable of vertically arranging a plurality of first tray  200 . It should be noted that within alternate embodiments, first assembled tray may include a plurality of rack  250 , and/or a plurality of instrument holder  260 . It should be further understood that rack  250  is optional, and the user may wish to exclude rack  250  from first tray  200 . In this manner, first tray  200  may comprise a single taller vertical unit. In the alternative, the user may include rack  250 , for example, per four (4) corner receiver  210 . First tray  200  as depicted in  FIG. 3  comprises of one (1) rack  250 ; seven (7) corner receiver  210 ; eighteen (18) first dowel  225 ; and one instrument holder  260 . It should be understood that the user is capable of stacking any number of first tray  200  to accommodate his or her unique laboratory equipment and/or sanitation machines. 
         [0039]    This embodiment permits the user to customize a vertical configuration to suit his or her sanitation needs depending on the type and/or size and/or height of item to be sanitized and within the confines of his or her particular sanitation device. This embodiment permits the user to sanitize items of differing heights (such as, for example, an Erlenmeyer flask and a scalpel) at the same time and maximize the internal cavity of his or her particular sanitation device without compromising complete sanitation and reducing the risk of pooled reagents or particulate matter after sanitation is complete. By way of example,  FIG. 3  demonstrates two (2) vertically assembled of first tray  200 . It should be understood that modular tray system is not limited to a particular number of first tray  200  or a particular number of second tray: the dimensions or modular tray systems  100  are determined by user preference to accommodate the user&#39;s particular equipment and sterilization/sanitation equipment. As mentioned above, a plurality of first tray  200  may be stacked with or without rack  250 . In this manner, first tray  200  is capable of receiving laboratory equipment of varying sizes and heights in need of sanitizing. 
         [0040]    Referring now to  FIG. 4 , illustrating a perspective view of second tray  400  of modular sanitation tray system  100 . An exploded view of side receiver  410  is also shown. Second tray  400  comprises at least one corner receiver  210 , at least one side receiver  410 , at least one second aperture  415 , at least one second dowel  419 , a plurality of first dowel  225  and a plurality of first aperture  220 . Optionally, second tray  400  may further comprise rack  250 , a cover (not shown) and/or instrument holder  260 . By way of example,  FIG. 4  illustrates second tray  400  comprising: two (2) rack  250 ; (2) instrument holder  260 ; eight (8) corner receiver  210  having six (6) first aperture  220  each (for a total of forty-eight (48) first aperture  220 ).  FIG. 4  further illustrates second tray  400  having four (4) side receiver  410  having six (6) first aperture  220  each for a total of twenty-four (24) aperture  220  one (1) second aperture  415 ; and one (1) second dowel  419 . Finally,  FIG. 4  depicts second tray  400  comprising thirty-six (36) first dowel  225 . It should be understood that the dimensions of second tray  400  are user customizable accommodate his or her own laboratory equipment and to fit within his or her own sterilization machine. As a result, the numbers of corner receiver  210 ; side receiver  410 ; rack  250 , instrument holder  260 , corner receiver  210 , first dowel  225  and second dowel  419  will vary according to the user&#39;s needs. In this manner, second tray  400  is not limited to the dimensions and components as depicted in  FIG. 4 . It should further be understood that second tray  400  is configured to accommodate several pieces of laboratory equipment of varying shapes, sizes, heights, volumes, and materials. As a result, second tray  400  may be arranged to form any conceivable poly sided multi linear configuration of reasonable portions. 
         [0041]    For exemplary means of an in-use condition,  FIG. 4  illustrates a saw and hemostats secured via instrument holder  260  within second tray  400 . Second tray  400  may comprise any material designed to withstand the high temperatures of standard sanitation equipment (such as an autoclave, dishwasher, or oven) including, but not limited to, metals or metal alloys, stainless steel, aluminum, polymers or any other material suitable for such purpose. Within the present embodiment shown, the components of second tray  400  comprise Radel® due to its structural stability, tolerance of high temperatures, ease of manufacture, and cost effectiveness. 
         [0042]    Side receiver  410  may comprise at least one second aperture  415 , at least one first aperture  220 , a plurality of side receiver slot  423 , and at least one side receiver groove  430 . Side receiver  410  may comprise a substantially “L” shaped configuration with the topmost portion comprising a substantially linear configuration of approximately 180 degrees. In this manner, side receiver  410  may be removably attached to corner receiver  210  with first aperture  220  and first dowel  225  to enclose a plurality of rack  250  as shown. In alternative embodiments, side receiver  410  may removably attached to another side receiver  410  via first aperture  220  and first dowel  225  (not shown). Side receiver  410  may be removably attached to corner receiver  210  and/or side receiver  410  via first dowel  225  which may be placed in first aperture  220  to form the outer confines of second tray  400  of modular sanitation tray  100 . In this manner, a substantially quadrangular configuration is created with an inner volume to house the user specified items to be sanitized. 
         [0043]    Side receiver  410  may further be comprised of a plurality of side receiver slot  423 . Side receiver slot  423  may traverse side receiver  410  on the vertical plane and/or on the horizontal plane as shown. Side receiver slot  423  may further decrease the surface area of side receiver  410  to decrease the overall surface area of modular sanitation tray system  100 . In this manner, side receiver slot  423  of side receiver  410  within second tray  400  of modular sanitation tray system  100  maximizes sanitation of laboratory equipment and significantly decreases the opportunity for contamination from residual pathogens while increasing completeness of the sanitation process by maximizing the flow of sterilants. 
         [0044]    Side receiver  410  may further comprise at least one male coupler  230  and/or at least one female coupler  235  to allow vertical stacking of at first tray  200  and/or second tray  400 . The dimensions of male coupler  230  and female coupler  235  permit the user to stack corner receiver  210  and side receiver  410  interchangeably. By way of example,  FIG. 4  depicts two (2) second tray  400  forming the base of modular sanitation tray system  100  with one (1) second tray  400  to form the top portion of modular sanitation tray system  100  via male coupler  230  and female coupler  235 . Male coupler  230  (shown in  FIG. 2 ) may be an appendage of side receiver  410 . Further, male coupler  230  may be any type of outgrowth sufficient to create a secure hold with female coupler  235 . Male coupler  230  may further serve the purpose of elevating modular tray system  100  from the substrate of the sanitation machine, thereby maximizing the surface area sterilants are able to permeate modular sanitation tray system  100 . In an alternative embodiment, male coupler  230  may be placed on or near the top or bottom of side receiver  410  (not shown). 
         [0045]    Female coupler  235  may comprise a depression, divot, concavity, or any other indentation sufficient to removably receive male coupler  230 . The dimensions of female coupler  235  are directly proportional and/or complementary to the dimensions of male coupler  230  such that first tray  200  is capable of being removable attached to second tray  400  using male coupler  230  and/or female coupler  235  as a securing means. Further, female coupler  235  further decreases the surface area of corner receiver  210  and as a result, the overall surface area of modular sanitation tray system  100 . In this manner, second tray  400  of modular sanitation tray system  100  maximizes the flow of sterilants to optimize sanitation of laboratory equipment and significantly decreases the opportunity for contamination from residual pathogens. 
         [0046]    Side receiver  410  may further comprise at least on first aperture  220  and at least one first dowel  225 . Preferably, side receiver  410  has a plurality of first aperture  220  to provide suitable frictional securing means for first dowel  225 . First aperture  220  may comprises a substantially cylindrical inner volume sufficient to removably receive first dowel  225 . Finally, first aperture  220  may be located on the proximal or distal portion of corner receiver  210 . First dowel  225  may comprise a rod within the particular embodiment shown. In this manner, first dowel  225  fits into aperture in a manner that creates an angle sufficient to create a poly-sided configuration of modular sanitation tray system  100 .  FIG. 5  depicts first dowel  225  and first aperture  220  in a substantially cylindrical configuration, however, it should be understood that the shape of first dowel  225  and first aperture  220  may be of any shape sufficient to provide a border to second tray  400 , such as, for example, a rectangular or triangular bar. 
         [0047]    As mentioned above, first dowel  225  may comprise a circumferential outer volume that is substantially proportional to inner volume to permit first dowel  225  to form a friction fit within the inner volume of first aperture  220  of corner receiver  210 . In this configuration, first dowel  225  and corner receiver  210  operate to create an outer border of second tray  400  by using the least amount of surface area possible while still maintaining structural integrity. Side receiver  410  may be removably attached to a corner receiver  210  via first dowel  225  which may be placed in first aperture  220  of side receiver  410  to form the outer confines of modular sanitation tray  100  as shown resulting in a substantially quadrangular configuration of first tray  200  is formed. In alternative embodiments (not shown) side receiver  410  may attach to a second side receiver  410  via first dowel  225  and first aperture  220 . In this manner, second tray  400  functions to house the items to be sanitized. It should be understood that corner receiver  210 , first aperture  220 , and first dowel  225  may work in concert to create the outer perimeter of second tray  400 . By way of example, second tray  400  is shown in a substantially rectangular shape. 
         [0048]    First dowel  225  further accomplishes the goal of reducing the overall surface area of first tray  200  while still maintaining its structural stability. In this manner, first dowel  225  functions as an integral unit of second tray  400  within modular sanitation tray system  100  to decrease drying time and minimize retention of contaminants once the sanitation process is complete. As a result, the opportunity for improper sanitation and residual contaminants is significantly decreased. Finally, side receiver  410  may comprise any material designed to withstand the high temperatures of standard sanitation equipment (such as an autoclave, dishwasher, or oven) including, but not limited to, metals or metal alloys, stainless steel, aluminum, polymers or any other material suitable for such purpose. Within the present embodiment shown, modular sanitation tray system  100  comprises Radel® due to its structural stability, tolerance of high temperatures, ease of manufacture, and cost effectiveness. 
         [0049]    Side receiver  410  may further comprise at least one second aperture  415  and at least one second dowel  419 . Second aperture  415  may comprise a substantially cylindrical inner volume sufficient to removably receive second dowel  419 .  FIG. 5  depicts second aperture  415  placed within the lower plane of side receiver  410 , and substantially within side receiver groove  430 . It should be understood that second aperture  415  may be located on the proximal or distal portion of side receiver  410  and may be located in the upper or lower portion of side receiver  410 . Further, second aperture  415  may be arranged in a substantially parallel relationship with rack  250 . Second aperture  415  may comprise an inner volume sufficient to removably receive at least one second dowel  419 . 
         [0050]    Second dowel  419  as shown may be substantially cylindrical and may comprise a circumferential outer volume that is substantially proportional to the inner volume of second aperture  415  to permit second dowel  419  to accomplish a friction fit within the inner volume of second aperture  415  of side receiver  410 . Second dowel  419  may comprise a rod within the particular embodiment shown. In this manner, second dowel  419  fits into second aperture  415  in a manner that functions to connect two side receiver  410  as shown. In this manner, second dowel  419  accomplishes the goal of increased structural integrity of second tray  400   FIG. 5  depicts second dowel  419  and second aperture  415  in a substantially cylindrical configuration, however, it should be understood that the shape of second dowel  419  and second aperture  415  may be of any shape sufficient to provide a border to second tray  400 , such as, for example, a rectangular or triangular bar. 
         [0051]    As mentioned above, Second dowel  419  may comprise a circumferential outer volume that is substantially proportional to inner volume to permit first Second dowel  419  to form a friction fit within the inner volume of Second aperture  415  of side receiver  410 . In this configuration, dowel and corner receiver  210  operate to create a secure environment using the least amount of surface area possible while still maintaining structural integrity. Second dowel  419  further accomplishes the goal of reducing the overall surface area of second tray  400  while still maintaining its structural stability. In this manner, second dowel  419  functions as an integral unit of second tray  400  within modular sanitation tray system  100  to decrease drying time and minimize retention of contaminants once the sanitation process is complete. As a result, the opportunity for improper sanitation and residual contaminants is significantly decreased. 
         [0052]    Side receiver  410  may further comprise at least one side receiver groove  430  for removably receiving a plurality of rack  250 . Side receiver groove  430  as depicted in  FIG. 5  is located on the horizontal plane of side receiver  410 . It should be understood that side receiver groove  430  may be located on any portion of side receiver  410  in any manner to permit it to removably receive rack  250 , such as the top most portion, the middle portion or the back. Further, side receiver groove  430  may comprise two substantially convex corners with a substantially planar midsection. In this manner, Side receiver groove  430  accomplishes the goal of connecting a plurality of rack  250  as shown. It should be understood that Side receiver groove  430  may be any shape sufficient to accommodate at least two (2) rack  250 . Side receiver groove  430  may be configured to receive at least 2 of corner of rack  250  as shown. In this manner, Side receiver groove  430  functions to permit the user to design a configuration of modular sanitation tray  100  containing a specified number of rack  250 , side receiver  410 , and corner receiver  210 . 
         [0053]    Side receiver groove  430  may be positioned substantially near the bottom of corner receiver  210  as shown. The dimensions of side receiver groove  430  are proportional to rack  250  so as to permit it first rack  250  to form a friction fit with groove  240  of corner receiver  210 . Rack  250  fits into side receiver groove  430  in a similar manner as that of a dado joint as shown. In other embodiments, rack  250  and side receiver groove  430  may be assembled in any manner sufficient to accomplish a secured hold such as clamps, brads, snaps, pegs, hooks, ties, or other suitable attaching means. Further, it should be understood that other joints such as tongue and groove, dovetail, box, finger, or any other suitable type of fastening means may be used to accomplish a secure assembly of groove  240  and rack  250 . In other embodiments, side receiver groove  430  may be located in any portion of side receiver  410  to function as a receiving means for rack  250 , such as, for example, the top or middle of corner receiver  210  Side receiver groove  430  further serves to decrease the overall weight of modular sanitation tray system  100  and increases the frictional surface area for maximum retention of rack  250 . 
         [0054]    Optionally, Second tray  400  may further comprise rack  250 . Rack  250  may be received by side receiver groove  430  via side receiver  410 . Rack  250  as shown comprises a substantially grid-like arrangement. It should be understood that rack  250  may be any framework capable of supporting instrument holder  260  and/or laboratory equipment within first tray  200 . In this manner, rack  250  accomplishes the goal of providing a substrate for instrument holder  260  for securing laboratory equipment in need of sanitizing within modular sanitation tray system  100 . In alternative embodiments, the user may omit rack  250  to create a configuration to accommodate taller equipment in need of sanitizing, such as a graduated cylinder or a surgical tray. Rack  250  further accomplishes the goal of reduced surface area to minimize retention of contaminants once the sanitation process is complete and to reduce the overall weight, cost of manufacture, and shipping costs of modular sanitation tray system  100 . Finally, rack  250  may comprise any material designed to withstand the high temperatures of standard sanitation equipment (such as an autoclave, dishwasher, or oven) including, but not limited to, metals or metal alloys, stainless steel, aluminum, polymers or any other material suitable for such purpose. Within the present embodiment shown, rack  250  comprises Radel CD due to its structural stability, tolerance of high temperatures, ease of manufacture, and cost effectiveness. 
         [0055]    Optionally, modular sanitation tray system  100  may further comprise at least one instrument holder  260  for horizontally and/or vertically holding at least one piece of laboratory equipment within modular sanitation tray system  100 . In alternative embodiments, instrument holder  260  may be affixed to first dowel  225  (not shown). Instrument holder  260  may comprise biasing means as shown. In alternative embodiments instrument holder  260  may further comprise, latching means, clamping means, or other such suitable methods of securing an item within modular sanitation tray system  100 . 
         [0056]    As mentioned above, instrument holder  260  of modular sanitation tray system  100  may be used to vertically and/or horizontally secure laboratory equipment within modular sanitation tray  110 . By way of example,  FIG. 5  depicts instrument holder  260  securing hemostats and a saw in a horizontal position within second tray  400 . Items to be sanitized may be placed on or in instrument holder  260  which may be attached to rack  250 , corner receiver  210 , side receiver  410 , or any other suitable portion of modular sanitation tray  100  to accomplish the task of securing items within the system as they undergo sanitization. In alternative embodiments, instrument holder  260  may be a spring fit, clasp, adhesives, or any other suitable configuration to accomplish the task of securing items within modular sanitation tray  210 . Further, instrument holder  260  may be attached to second tray  400  via clamps, screws, brads, pins, rivets, grommets, adhesives, or any other suitable means necessary to affix instrument holder  260  to modular sanitation tray  110 . Finally, instrument holder  260  may comprise any material designed to withstand the high temperatures of standard sanitation equipment (such as an autoclave, dishwasher, or oven) including, but not limited to, metals or metal alloys, stainless steel, aluminum, polymers or any other material suitable for such purpose. 
         [0057]    As mentioned previously, modular sanitation tray system  100  may further comprise handle  405 . Handle  405  may be affixed to first dowel  225  of second tray  400  as shown. Further, handle  405  may be affixed to corner receiver  210 , side receiver  410 , or any component of first tray  200  and/or second tray  400  to accomplish a means by which the user may grasp, suspend, and/or carry modular sanitation tray system  100 . In this manner, handle  405  permits the user to grip and transport modular sanitation tray system  100  into or out of sanitation device and to other areas where sanitized items are used such as an operating room or laboratory. Handle  405  may be affixed to second tray  400  or first tray  200  (not shown) via clamps, screws, brads, pins, rivets, grommets, adhesives, or any other suitable means necessary to affix the at least one handle  405  to modular sanitation tray  110 . Finally, handle  405  may comprise any material designed to withstand the high temperatures of standard sanitation equipment (such as an autoclave, dishwasher, or oven) including, but not limited to, metals or metal alloys, stainless steel, aluminum, polymers or any other material suitable for such purpose. 
         [0058]    Referring now to  FIG. 5 , illustrating kit  500  of modular tray system  100  shown in  FIGS. 1-4 . Kit  500  may include at least one first tray  200 ; at least one second tray  400 ; at least one cover (not shown); and at least one handle  405 . Corner receiver  210  may be removably attached to another corner receiver  210  via first dowel  225  which may be placed in first aperture  220  of side receiver  410 . In alternative embodiments, corner receiver  210  may be removably attached to another corner receiver  210  via first dowel  225  which may be placed in first aperture  220  of corner receiver  210 . In other embodiments, side receiver  410  may be removably attached to another side receiver  410  via first dowel  225  which may be placed in first aperture  220  of side receiver  410 . Further, modular sanitation tray system  100  may comprise only first tray  200  and/or only second tray  400  and/or a combination of first tray  200  and second tray  400 . In this way the present invention is customizable and may be assembled according to user-preference based on the application desired and available space in the sanitizing mechanism. As discussed previously, kit  500  may comprise vertical and horizontal configurations. Kit  500  contents may comprise the various components made from different materials as mentioned above. Examples of equipment to be sanitized within modular tray system  100  as shown in  FIG. 5  include hemostats, a saw, a scalpel, and two (2) Ehrlenmeyer flasks. 
         [0059]    By way of example,  FIG. 5  shows two (2) first tray  200  and one (1) second tray  400  removably attached to each on the vertical and/or horizontal axis via the male coupling element  230  and/or the female coupling element  240 . This option allows the user to further customize modular tray system  100  according to his or her particular sanitation device and depending on the items the user wishes to sanitize individually or in groups. Optionally, a plurality of side receiver  410  may be used to increase the size and shape of modular sanitation tray system  100  thus creating a substantially multiplanar configuration (e.g. the resultant shape may be any shape wherein the sides are parallel or perpendicular in relation to each other to form a vertical or horizontal square, rectangle, “L” shape, “I” shape, “T” shape, or any other user preferred rectilinear configuration. As depicted in  FIG. 5  modular sanitation tray system  100  comprises one (1) handle  405 , one (1) second tray  400  comprising two (2) rack  250 ; two side receiver  410 ; four (4) corner receiver  210 , eighteen (18) first dowel  225 , one (1) second dowel  419 , one (1) instrument holder  260 ; and two (2) first tray  200  comprising one (1) rack  250 , seven (7) corner receiver  210 , twelve (12) first dowel  225  and one (1) instrument holder  260 . By way of example, a hemostat and a saw are shown in second tray  400 , while an Erlenmeyer flask and a scalpel are shown in first tray  200 . 
         [0060]    Referring now to  FIG. 6 , modular sanitation tray system  100  provides a system whereby the components may be manufactured separately providing for decreased costs related to shipping. Further, the user has the additional benefit that the system is easily assemblable and disassemblable for transport between locations and in/or out of the sanitation machine. The user also benefits in that they may select individual components instead of buying a pre-packaged unit. 
         [0061]    Method of use  600  may comprise the following steps of assembling and using modular sanitation tray  100  according to user-preference including: step one  601  inserting at least one first dowel  225  into at least one first aperture  220  of at least one corner receiver  210 ; step two  602  attaching at least one corner receiver  210  to another corner receiver  210  via at least one first dowel  225 ; and optional step three  603  sliding a rack  250  into groove  240  of corner receiver  210  to make first tray  200  of modular sanitation tray system  100 . 
         [0062]    Modular sanitizing tray system components may be assembled in horizontal relation to each other by optional step four  604  inserting at least one first dowel  225  into at least one first aperture  220  of at least one side receiver  410 ; optional step five  605  attaching at least one side receiver  410  to corner receiver  210  and/or another side receiver  410 ; optional step  607  of attaching side receiver  410  to another side receiver  410  via at least one second aperture  415  and via at least one second dowel  419  and at least one second aperture  415 ; optional step six  608  sliding a rack  250  into groove  240  of corner receiver  210  or side receiver groove  430  of side receiver  410  to make a poly-sided modular sanitation tray  100 . 
         [0063]    Once modular sanitation tray system  100  is assembled in the user desired configuration, modular sanitation tray system  100  may optionally be assembled in a vertical configuration by optional step seven  609  placing first tray  200  on top of another first tray  200  via male coupling element  230  and/or female coupling element  235 ; and/or optional step  610  of placing second tray  400  on top of another second tray  400  via male coupling element  230  and/or female coupling element  235 ; and/or optionally placing first tray  200  on top of second tray  400  via male coupling element  230  and/or female coupling element  235 . The user may repeat steps  601  through  609  as needed to create modular sanitation tray system  100  according to his or her specifications. Finally, step  610  inserting items into modular sanitation tray system  100  to be sanitized; and optionally step  611  disassembling modular sanitation tray system  100  for storage and/or transport. 
         [0064]    It should be noted that the steps described in the method of use can be carried out in many different orders according to user preference. Upon reading this specification, it should be appreciated that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as design preference, user preferences, marketing preferences, cost, structural requirements, available materials, technological advances, etc., other methods of use arrangements such as, for example, different orders within above-mentioned list, elimination or addition of certain steps, including or excluding certain maintenance steps, etc., may be sufficient. 
         [0065]    The embodiments of the invention described herein are exemplary and numerous modifications, variations, and rearrangements can be readily envisioned to achieve substantially equivalent results, all of which are intended to be embraced within the spirit and scope of the invention.