Patent Publication Number: US-2022227566-A1

Title: Nesting structures for storage, transport, and assembly of drug dispensers and containers

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This invention relates generally to the field of packaging structures, such as for the packaging of drug dispensers and containers. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Production and transport of pharmaceuticals often involves processes that occur at mass scale. For example, large quantities of drug containers and/or dispensers may be manufactured separately, then transported to other equipment that performs sterilization, filling, assembly, and/or other processes. Assembled containers and/or their associated dispensers may then be transported for further distribution. 
     While at least some of these processes can be performed by equipment in an automated manner to improve efficiency and product output, care must be taken when manipulating certain kinds of products. For example, many containers are made of glass and are prone to breakage if not handled properly. Similarly, it can be important to carefully handle fragile or delicate containers or dispensers to avoid breakage or deformation. Additionally, irregularly-shaped items may be difficult to handle in a space-efficient manner, or may become entangled or disorganized if not carefully managed. Furthermore, such large-scale manufacturing and distribution processes may also be subject to various governmental regulations to ensure product safety, such as maintaining sterility, which may further complicate packaging procedures. 
     Thus, there is a need for new and improved packaging structures, such as for the storage, transport and assembly of drug dispensers and containers. 
     SUMMARY 
     In some variations, a packaging structure for a plurality of dispensers (e.g., drug dispensers) may include a support surface, and a plurality of dispenser covers arranged on the support surface, where at least one dispenser cover may include a locking flexure member configured to couple a dispenser to the at least one dispenser cover. The packaging structure may, for example, be included in a packaging assembly that further includes a plurality of drug dispensers coupled to the dispenser covers. At least one of such drug dispensers may include a cover for a drug container. The drug dispensers in the packaging assembly may, for example, include a spray pump (e.g., nasal spray pump) or a drop dispenser (e.g., eyedropper) that is configured to couple to a drug container. 
     In some variations, a packaging structure for a plurality of dispensers (e.g., drug dispensers) may include a support surface and a plurality of dispenser seats arranged on the support surface, where at least one dispenser seat may include a base having an opening, a wall extending from the base, and at least one alignment feature configured to engage with an engagement feature in a dispenser to thereby orient the dispenser in the at least one dispenser seat. The packaging structure may, for example, be included in a packaging assembly that further includes a plurality of drug dispensers. At least one of such drug dispensers may include a cover for a drug container. The drug dispensers in the packaging assembly may, for example, include a spray pump (e.g., nasal spray pump) or a drop dispenser (e.g., eyedropper) that is configured to couple to a drug container. 
     In some variations, a packaging assembly may include a base, a plurality of containers arranged on the base, and at least one reinforcement member coupled to at least one container. The containers may include a first material having a first rigidity, and the at least one reinforcement member may include a second material having a second rigidity that is greater than the first rigidity. The containers may, for example, be configured to couple to a drug dispenser such as a drop dispenser (e.g., eyedropper). 
     A method for assembling dispenser assemblies may include providing a first support structure comprising a plurality of dispenser covers and providing a second support structure comprising a plurality of container seats. A plurality of dispensers may be coupled to the dispenser covers (e.g., with one or more locking members), and a plurality of containers may be seated in the container seats. The method may further include filling the containers with a substance (e.g., drug (such as a liquid drug), such as a preservative-free drug) to be dispensed from the container, then aligning the first and second support structures to align the plurality of dispensers with the plurality of containers. After the first and second support structures are aligned, the first support structure and/or the second support structure may be manipulated to simultaneously couple the plurality of dispensers to the plurality of containers. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  depicts a schematic illustration of nested packaging structures and their combined use. 
         FIG. 2A  depicts a schematic illustration of an example variation of a pump nest assembly. 
         FIGS. 2B and 2C  depict assembled and exploded views, respectively, of a portion of an example variation of a pump nest assembly. 
         FIG. 3A  depicts a schematic illustration of an example variation of a pump nest guide. 
         FIG. 3B  depicts a detailed view of a dispenser seat in an example variation of a pump nest guide. 
         FIG. 3C  depicts a schematic illustration of an example variation of a pump in a pump nest assembly. 
         FIGS. 3D and 3E  depict perspective and detailed views, respectively, of pumps arranged in an example variation of a pump nest guide. 
         FIG. 4A  depicts a schematic illustration of an example variation of a pump nest. 
         FIGS. 4B and 4C  depict detailed views of a dispenser cover in an example variation of a pump nest, without and with a pump, respectively. 
         FIG. 5A  depicts a schematic illustration of a portion of an example variation of a pump nest assembly including a pump nest guide, pumps, and a pump nest. 
         FIG. 5B  depicts a detailed view of the portion of the pump nest assembly depicted in  FIG. 5A . 
         FIG. 6A  depicts a detailed view of an example variation of a pump nest with locking members. 
         FIGS. 6B and 6C  depict detailed views of a dispenser cover with locking members in an example variation of a pump nest, without and with a pump, respectively. 
         FIG. 7A  depicts a schematic illustration of an example variation of a container nest assembly. 
         FIG. 7B  depicts a schematic illustration of a portion of an example variation of a container nest assembly including a container nest and containers. 
         FIGS. 7C and 7D  are perspective and plan views, respectively, of an example variation of a container nest. 
         FIG. 8A  depicts a schematic illustration of an example variation of a dropper nest assembly. 
         FIG. 8B  depicts a schematic illustration of an example variation of a dropper nest. 
         FIG. 8C  depicts a schematic illustration of a spacer on an example variation of a dropper nest. 
         FIG. 8D  depicts a cross-sectional view of an example variation of a dropper nest. 
         FIG. 8E  depicts a detailed view of an example variation of a drop dispenser in a dropper nest assembly. 
         FIG. 8F  depicts a detailed cross-sectional view of an example variation of a dropper nest with drop dispensers. 
         FIGS. 8G and 8H  depict schematic illustrations of an example variation of a dropper nest with dispenser cover access openings. 
         FIG. 9A  depicts a schematic illustration of an example variation of a dropper container nest assembly. 
         FIGS. 9B and 9C  depict assembled and partially exploded views, respectively, of a portion of an example variation of a dropper container nest assembly. 
         FIG. 9D  is a schematic portion of an example variation of a reinforcement member in a dropper container nest assembly. 
         FIGS. 9E and 9F  are exploded and assembled views, respectively, of an example variation of reinforcement members and dropper containers in a dropper container nest assembly. 
         FIG. 10  depicts a flowchart of an example variation of a method for assembling packaging structures. 
         FIG. 11  is a schematic illustration of an example variation of a method for assembling dispenser assemblies including pump dispensers. 
         FIG. 12  is a schematic illustration of an example variation of a method for assembling dispenser assemblies including drop dispensers. 
         FIGS. 13A-13E  are a perspective view, a top view, a bottom view, a front view, and a side view, respectively, of an example variation of a pump nest guide with 48 dispenser seats. 
         FIGS. 14A-14E  are a perspective view, a top view, a bottom view, a front view, and a side view, respectively, of an example variation of a pump nest guide with 24 dispenser seats. 
         FIGS. 15A-15G  are an upper perspective view, a lower perspective view, a top view, a cross-sectional view taken along the line A:A in  FIG. 15C , a bottom view, a front view, and a side view, respectively, of an example variation of a pump nest with 48 dispenser seats. 
         FIGS. 16A-16G  are an upper perspective view, a lower perspective view, a top view, a cross-sectional view taken along the line B:B shown in  FIG. 16C , a bottom view, a front view, and a side view, respectively, of an example variation of a pump nest with 24 dispenser seats. 
         FIGS. 17A-17E  are a perspective view, a top view, a bottom view, a front view, and a side view, respectively, of an example variation of a container nest. 
         FIGS. 18A-18G  are an upper perspective view, a lower perspective view, a top view, a cross-sectional view taken along the line C:C shown in  FIG. 18C , a bottom view, a front view, and a side view, respectively, of an example variation of a dropper nest. 
         FIG. 19  is a partially exploded view of an example variation of a dropper nest assembly 
         FIGS. 20A-20E  are a perspective view, a top view, a bottom view, a front view, and a side view, respectively, of an example variation of a dropper container nest. 
         FIGS. 21A and 21B  are assembled and exploded views, respectively, of an example variation of reinforcement members in a dropper nest assembly.  FIGS. 21C-21F  are a top view, a bottom view, a front view, and a side view, respectively, of the reinforcement members shown in  FIG. 21A . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Non-limiting examples of various aspects and variations of the invention are described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. 
     Described herein are variations of packaging structures for use in processing containers and/or other accompanying items such as container covers (e.g., dispensers) during processes such as storage, transport, and/or assembly. For example, in some variations, nested packaging structures such as those described herein may be used to handle drug containers and/or drug dispensers. Also described herein are methods of assembling containers and dispensers using such packaging structures. 
     Nesting Packaging Structures 
       FIG. 1  depicts a schematic illustration of nested packaging structures for different components and their use. In some variations, a first packaging assembly  110  may include one or more packaging structures  112  (e.g., trays) for a first component type. For example, components of the first component type may be nested (e.g., in a protective, organized manner) in a packaging structure  112 . For sake of illustration, the first component type may, for example, include containers (e.g., bottles) for pharmaceutical drugs. The first packaging assembly  110  may include a single packaging structure  112  that contains multiple items of the first component type, or may include multiple such packaging structures  112  that are stacked or otherwise layered. In some variations, the first packaging assembly  110  may further include a tub that receives the one or more packaging structures  112 . The tub may be sealed or otherwise covered to help contain the packaging structure(s)  112  in the tub, such as with foil or a film. Prior to sealing, the packaging structure(s)  112  and components contained therein may be sterilized (e.g., with a sterilant gas such as ethylene oxide, etc.). 
     Similarly, a second packaging assembly  120  may include one or more packaging structures  122  (e.g., trays) for a second component type. For example, components of the first component type may be nested (e.g., in a protective, organized manner) in a packaging structure  122 . The second component type may, for example include container covers (e.g., dispensers, lids, caps, etc.), and may be configured to couple to the first component type. Like the first packaging assembly, the second packaging assembly  120  may include a single packaging structure  122  that contains multiple items of the second component type, or may include multiple such packaging structures  122  that are stacked or otherwise layered. In some variations, the second packaging assembly  120  may further include a tub that receives the one or more packaging structures  122 . The tub may be sealed or otherwise covered to help contain the packaging structure(s)  122  in the tub, such as with foil or a film. Prior to sealing, the packaging structure(s)  112  and components contained therein may be sterilized (e.g., with gamma ray sterilization, with a sterilant gas such as ethylene oxide, etc.). 
     The packaging structures  112  and  122  may enable simultaneous, collective manipulation of large quantities of the components contained therein. For example, the packaging structures  112  and/or  122  may be manipulated so as to substantially simultaneously couple components contained in the packaging structure  112  to components contained in the packaging structure  122 . Accordingly, components among the first packaging assembly  110  may be coupled to the components among the second packaging assembly  120  in an efficient manner. Furthermore, components in the first and second packaging structures may be protected against breakage, disorganization, etc. throughout such manipulation, at least in part because components among the first packaging assembly  110  may be nested in the first packaging structure  122 , and components among the second packaging assembly  120  may be nested in the second packaging structure  122 . Illustrative examples of packaging structures as described in further detail below. 
     Pump Nest Assembly 
       FIG. 2A  depicts a schematic illustration of an example variation of a pump nest assembly  200 . The pump nest assembly may include one or more packaging structures in a tub  210  or other suitable container, where each packaging structure may contain a plurality of pumps. The pump nest assembly  200  may, for example, store a plurality of nasal pumps in a protective and/or organized manner that reduces the likelihood of damage or entangling of the pumps. Packaging structures may sit within a tub as shown in  FIG. 2A  and be accessible through an upper tub opening. In some variations, an opening of the tub  210  may be sealed, such as with a seal  212 . The seal  212  may include, for example, a metal foil, plastic film, or any suitable material. The seal  212  may help maintain sterility of the contents of the pump nest assembly  200  until the tub  210  is opened (e.g., by peeling off or otherwise breaching the seal  212 ), such as to access the packaging structures contained therein. However, in some variations each packaging structure may be a standalone packaging structure that is sealed directly, rather than (or in addition to) being sealed within the tub  210 . 
     Multiple kinds of packaging structures may collaborate to contain the pumps within the tub  210 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 2B , the pump nest assembly may include a pump nest  220  and in a pump nest guide  230 . As shown in the exploded view of  FIG. 2C , the pump nest  220  may include a plurality of dispenser covers  224 , each of which may receive an upper portion (e.g., pump head  204 ) of a respective pump  202 . The pump nest guide  230  may include a plurality of dispenser seats  234 , each of which may receive a lower portion (e.g., pump cap) of a respective pump  202 . The dispenser covers  224  and the dispenser seats  234  may be arranged in similar layouts such that the dispenser covers  224  and the dispenser seats  234  are aligned. Accordingly, the pump nest guide  230 , the pumps  202 , and the pump nest  220  may be layered so as to organize and protect the pumps  202  between the pump nest guide  230  and the pump nest  220 . 
     The pump nest guide  230  may further function to help protect the dip tubes  208  from damage. For example, the pump nest guide  230  may include a support surface  222  that extends to the internal walls of the tub  210  and is configured to rest upon an internal shoulder of the tub  210 . The depth or location of the internal shoulder of the tub may be equal to or exceed the length of the dip tubes that extend beyond a lower surface of the dispenser seats  234 , such that when the pump nest guide  230  rests upon the internal shoulder of the tub, the dip tubes are prevented from touching the bottom of the tub  210 . Furthermore, due at least in part to the spacing between the dispenser seats  234 , the dip tubes  208  may be sufficiently spaced apart from each other so as to avoid interference with adjacent dip tubes. Accordingly, the pump nest guide  230  may help prevent the dip tubes  208  from damage due to bending, entanglement with adjacent dip tubes, etc. The pump nest guide  230  may thus help keep the dip tubes  208  sufficiently straight (e.g., each dip tube axially aligned with the rest of the pump body), which may, for example, help facilitate the attachment of the pumps  202  to containers, as described in further detail below. 
     Pump Nest Guide 
     As described above, the pump nest guide  230  may receive a plurality of pumps in the pump nest assembly  200 . As shown in  FIG. 3A , the pump nest guide  230  may include a support surface  232  and a plurality of dispenser seats  234  arranged on the support surface. The support surface  232  may be configured to rest within a tub or other container, as described above. While the support surface  232  is shown in  FIG. 3A  as generally planar and having a rectangular shape, it should be understood that the support surface  232  may be non-planar (e.g., convex, concave) and have any suitable shape (e.g., circular, elliptical, etc.). In some variations, the pump nest guide  230  may include one or more cutouts  231  that may, for example, provide clearance for fingers between the tub wall and the support surface  232  to enable manual removal of the pump nest guide  230  from the tub. Additionally or alternatively, in some variations the pump nest guide  230  may include other suitable engagement features on the support surface  232  (e.g., around the perimeter of the support surface) or other portion of the pump nest guide  230 . For example, the pump nest guide  230  may include a suction cup, a smooth surface to which a suction cup or vacuum source may attach, other fasteners such as hooks, etc. to help facilitate handling of the pump nest guide  230 . 
     The dispenser seats  234  may be arranged on the support surface in an array. For example, the dispenser seats  234  may be arranged in a regular array (e.g., hexagonal, rectangular, etc.), and in some variations may be in a compact array so as to optimize the number of dispenser seats  234  (and accordingly, the number of pumps) that may be placed into the pump nest guide  230 . Alternatively, the dispenser seats  234  may be arranged in an irregular array or any suitable layout pattern. While the variation shown in  FIG. 3A  includes 48 dispenser seats, it should be understood that the pump nest guide  230  may include any suitable number of dispenser seats  234 . 
     In some variations, adjacent dispenser seats  234  may be coupled. This may, for example, help increase rigidity of the pump nest guide and help stabilize the pumps  202  when the pumps  202  are placed in the pump nest guide. For example, as shown in  FIG. 3B , the pump nest guide may include one or more interconnecting walls  233  that extend between adjacent dispenser seats  234 . The interconnecting walls  233  may be integrally formed with the support surface  232  and/or dispenser seats  234 , or may be separately formed and coupled to the support surface  232  and/or dispenser seats  234 . Additionally or alternatively, adjacent dispenser seats  234  may share a common structure (e.g., share a common wall  236  as described below). 
     As shown in  FIG. 3B , a dispenser seat  234  may include a base  235  having an opening  235   a , and a wall  236  extending from the base  235  to form a recess for receiving a pump dispenser. In other words, in some variations the pump dispenser may be configured to sit upon the base  235 , and at least partially contained within the wall  236 . The base  235  may be sized and shaped in a similar manner as a bottom portion of the pump dispenser (e.g., cap  206 , as shown in  FIG. 3C ). As shown in  FIG. 3B , the base  235  may include an opening  235   a , which may function to permit passage of a dip tube  208  of the pump  202  to extend through the pump nest guide. The opening  235   a  may be circular or any suitable shape. 
     The wall  236  of the dispenser seat  234  may be configured to substantially circumscribe the bottom portion of the pump dispenser. For example, as shown in  FIG. 3B , the base  235  and the wall  236  may be generally circular to accommodate a circular pump dispenser, though they may be any suitable shape to accommodate any suitable footprint of a pump dispenser (e.g., elliptical, square, rectangular, etc.). The wall  236  may, in some variations, extend orthogonally from the base  235 , though in some variations the wall  236  may be sloped. For example, in some variations, the diameter of the wall  236  may be narrower where the wall attaches to the base, which may funnel or self-center the pump dispenser when the pump dispenser is placed into the pump nest guide. Additionally or alternatively, thickness of the wall  236  may vary, such that an inner diameter of the wall  236  provides a tapering or self-centering surface for the pump dispenser while the outer diameter of the wall  236  is constant. 
     In some variations, the wall  236  includes a continuous structure around part or all of the perimeter of the dispenser seat. Alternatively, in some variations the wall  236  may include multiple discrete wall segments that follow the shape of the base and extend to collectively contain the bottom of the pump dispenser. Additionally or alternatively, the dispenser seat  234  may include one or more brackets  237  coupled to or formed with the base  235  and the wall  236 , where each bracket  237  may function as structural reinforcement for the shape of the dispenser seat  234  and/or as a release point for injection molding, etc. 
     Although a dispenser seat  234  is primarily described above to include a wall that is configured to contain a pump  202  by surrounding an outer surface of the pump  202 , a dispenser seat  234  may include any suitable features for locating a pump  202  in the dispenser seat  234  in the pump nest guide  230 . For example, in some variations, a dispenser seat in the pump nest guide may additionally or alternatively include one or more extending projections that interfaces with an internal surface of the pump dispenser (e.g., inner surface of the cap  206 ). For example, a dispenser seat may include an upwardly projecting ring or multiple discrete ring segments around which the pump dispenser  202  sits. 
     Furthermore, as shown in  FIG. 3B , the dispenser seat  234  may include at least one alignment feature  238  configured to engage with an engagement feature in a pump to thereby orient the pump in the at least one dispenser seat. For example, the exemplary pump shown in  FIG. 3C  includes an engagement feature  205  that extends radially outward from the body of the pump  202 , and the alignment feature  238  in the dispenser seat  234  may include a slot or other cutout that receives the engagement feature  205 , thereby orienting the pump  202  in a predetermined rotational orientation in the dispenser seat  234  as shown in  FIG. 3E . In some variations, a dispenser seat  234  may include multiple alignment features to accommodate multiple permissible pump orientations. For example, as shown in  FIG. 3B , a dispenser seat  234  may include two alignment features  238  that are opposite one another across the dispenser seat  234  (180 degrees rotationally offset), which may enable a pump  202  to have two permissible rotational orientations within the dispenser seat  234 . 
     The alignment features  238  for the multiple dispenser seats  234  in the pump nest guide  230  may be oriented in a parallel manner, such that when multiple pumps  202  are seated in the pump nest guide  230 , all of the pumps  202  may be neatly and compactly organized without physical interference among the pumps. Additionally, the engagement of the alignment features  238  and the engagement features  205  may help rotationally stabilize the pumps  202  during transport, thereby reducing pump movement in the pump nest guide to reduce risk of damage and/or help ensure predictable positioning for the pumps across the entire array to help facilitate other automated processes such as labeling, etc. 
     In this example for sake of illustration, the engagement feature  205  includes a radial tab on a clip that couples to the pump  202  to prevent inadvertent actuation of the pump. Specifically, the safety clip may be inserted between an actuating pump head  204  and the pump cap  206 , to physically block movement of the pump head  204  toward the pump cap  206  (e.g., during transport of the pump  202 ). Actuation of the pump  202  is permitted after removing the clip. However, while in this example a radial tab on the clip includes the engagement feature  205  for assisting orientation of the pump in the pump nest guide, the engagement feature  205  may be on any suitable feature of the pump  202  (e.g., a longitudinal rib on the cap  206 ) and/or an accessory thereon (e.g., circular ring placed over the cap  206 ). 
     In some variations, the pump nest guide may be injection molded out of a suitably rigid plastic, though the pump nest guide may be formed in any suitable manner (e.g., 3D printed, milled, etc.). In some variations, the pump nest guide may include a material stable under gamma ray sterilization (e.g., HDPE) and/or any suitable kind of sterilization such as X-ray sterilization, E-Beam sterilization, ethylene oxide sterilization, steam, etc. Furthermore, some or all of the dispenser seats  234  may be integrally formed with the support surface  232 . Additionally or alternatively, some or all of the dispenser seats  234  may be separately formed from the support surface  232  and be coupled to the support surface  232  through a mechanical interfit (e.g., threads, snap fit, other mating features, etc.), suitable fasteners (e.g., epoxy, connectors, etc.), and/or suitable joining process (e.g., thermal welding). 
     An example variation of a pump nest guide (with 48 dispenser seats) is shown in greater detail in  FIGS. 13A-13E . Additionally, an example variation of a pump nest guide (with 24 dispenser seats) is shown in  FIGS. 14A-14E . 
     Pump Nest 
     The pump nest guide  220  may cover and/or engage with a plurality of pumps seated in the pump nest guide  230 . As shown in  FIG. 4A , the pump nest  220  may include a support surface  222  and a plurality of dispenser covers  224  arranged on the support surface. While the support surface  222  is shown in  FIG. 4A  as generally planar and having a rectangular shape, it should be understood that the support surface  222  may be non-planar (e.g., convex, concave) and have any suitable shape (e.g., circular, elliptical, etc.). Like the pump nest guide  232 , the pump nest  220  may include one or more cutouts  221  that may, for example, provide clearance for fingers to enable manual removal of the pump nest  220  from the tub. Additionally or alternatively, in some variations the pump nest  220  may include other suitable engagement features on the support surface  222  (e.g., around the perimeter of the support surface) or other portion of the pump nest  220 . For example, the pump nest  220  may include a suction cup, a smooth surface to which a suction cup or vacuum source may attach, other fasteners such as hooks, etc. to help facilitate handling of the pump nest  220 . 
     The dispenser covers  224  may be arranged on the support surface  222  in an array similar to that described above for the dispenser seats  234  in the pump nest guide  230 . For example, the dispenser covers  224  may be arranged in a regular array (e.g., hexagonal, rectangular, etc.), irregular array, or any suitable layout pattern. While the variation shown in  FIG. 4A  includes 48 dispenser covers, it should be understood that the pump nest  220  may include any suitable number of dispenser covers. The layout arrangement of the dispenser covers  224  in the pump nest may be identical to the layout arrangement of the dispenser seats  234  in the pump nest guide, so as to simultaneously accommodate the same set of pumps between the pump nest guide and the pump nest. 
     In some variations, adjacent dispenser covers  224  may be coupled. This may, for example, help increase rigidity of the pump nest and help stabilize the pumps  202  when they are in the pump nest  220 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 4A , the pump nest  220  may include one or more interconnecting walls  223  that extend between adjacent dispenser covers  224 . The interconnecting walls  223  may be integrally formed with the support surface  222  and/or dispenser covers  224 , or may be separately formed and coupled to the support surface  222  and/or dispenser covers  224 . Additionally or alternatively, adjacent dispenser covers may share a common structure such as a wall. 
     As shown in  FIG. 4B , in some variations a dispenser cover  224  may include a first dispenser cover portion  224   a  (e.g. upper portion) on one side of the support surface  222 , and a second dispenser cover portion  224   b  (e.g., lower portion) on an opposite side of the support surface  222 . The dispenser cover portion  224   a  may, for example, include a wall that is configured to substantially surround a pump head  204  of a pump that extends beyond the support surface  222 . The inner diameter of the dispenser cover portion  224   a  may be larger than a diameter of the pump head  204 , but smaller than a diameter of a pump shoulder  203  (shown in  FIG. 3C ), such that when the pump nest  220  is placed over an array of pumps  202 , the pump nest  220  rests upon the collective pump shoulders  203  of the pumps  202 . The length of the dispenser cover portion  224   a  accordingly may, in some variations, be at least as long as (or longer than) the pump head  204  of the pump, so as to adequately extend along the length of the pump head  204 . In some variations, some or all the dispenser cover portions  224   a  may have an open distal end as shown in  FIG. 5A , though in some variations some or all the dispenser cover portion  224   a  may have a closed distal end to completely cover the pump heads  204 . 
     The second dispenser cover portion  224   b  may similarly include a wall that is configured to substantially surround a cap  206  of a pump. As shown in  FIG. 3C , in some variations a pump  202  may include a cap  206  having a wider diameter than the pump head  204 . Accordingly, to accommodate such a pump, a dispenser cover  224  may include a dispenser cover portion  224   b  that has a wider diameter than the dispenser cover portion  224   a.    
     In some variations, the dispenser cover portion  224   b  may be a similar, but inverted version, of the dispenser seat  234  described above. For example, the dispenser cover portion  224   b  may include an opening to permit passage of the pump head  204  through the support surface  222  (so as to be covered by the dispenser portion  224   a ). Additionally, dispenser cover portion  224   a  may include at least one alignment feature  238  configured to engage with an engagement feature in a pump, to thereby orient the pump in the pump nest  220 . Similar to that described above, the alignment feature  238  may include a slot or other cutout that receives the engagement feature  205  (e.g., radial projection on the pump  202 ). Furthermore, in some variations the dispenser cover portion  224   b  may include multiple alignment features (e.g., two alignment features 180 degrees rotationally offset from each other around the dispenser cover portion  224   b ). 
     Accordingly, as shown in  FIGS. 5A and 5B , a set of pumps may be nested within both the pump nest  220  and the pump nest guide  230 , with dip tubes  208  extending beyond the pump nest guide  230 . Each pump may be nested between a respective dispenser seat  234  and dispenser cover  224  that are axially aligned. As shown in  FIG. 5B , an engagement feature  205  of the pump may engage both the alignment feature  238  in the dispenser seat  234  and the alignment feature  228  in the dispenser cover  224 . However, in some variations one or both of the alignment features  228  and  238  may be omitted. For example, such alignment features may not be necessary if the pump  202  does not include an engagement feature  205 , or otherwise if there is less concern for keeping the pumps  202  in a predetermined rotational orientation within the pump nest  220  and the pump nest guide  230 . 
     Furthermore, in some variations, a dispenser cover may include one or more locking members configured to couple a pump  202  to the dispenser cover. For example, as shown in  FIG. 6A , a dispenser cover may include at least one locking flexure member  226  configured to couple a pump to the dispenser cover  224 . In some variations, a dispenser cover may include multiple locking members (e.g., two locking flexure members  226 ). The locking members may be distributed equally or radially symmetrically around the dispenser cover, so as to retain the pump in the dispenser cover in a balanced manner. For example, as shown in  FIG. 6A , a dispenser cover may include two locking flexure members  226  arranged 180 degrees rotationally offset from each other. In some variations, the locking member(s) may engage with a radial projection of the pump  202  to couple the pump  202  to the dispenser cover  224 . When the locking members across the pump nest  220  couple a set of multiple pumps  202  to the pump nest  220 , all secured pumps  202  may advantageously be manipulated (e.g., transported) by handling the pump nest  220  itself, as further described below. Accordingly, the pump nest with such locking members may enable easy, efficient handling of multiple pumps simultaneously. 
       FIGS. 6B and 6C  illustrate an example variation of a locking flexure member  226  coupling to a pump  202 . The locking flexure members  226  may be formed from or coupled to the dispenser cover portion  224   b  on a lower side of the pump nest  220 , though in other variations similar structures may be located in the upper dispenser cover portion  224   a  or another part of the pump nest  220 . As shown in  FIG. 6B , a locking flexure member  226  may include an arm with a fixed proximal end and a free distal end with a stop  227 . The locking flexure member may generally extend longitudinally along the dispenser cover portion  224   b , parallel to a central axis of the dispenser cover, and may be configured to flex in a radial direction (e.g., relative to the central axis of the dispenser cover). For example, the locking flexure member  226  may flex radially outward to receive the pump  202  within the dispenser cover  224 . The stop  227  may include a lower sloped surface to further ease passage of the pump  202  into the dispenser cover  224 . When the pump  202  reaches a certain insertion depth into the dispenser cover  224 , the pump shoulder  203  may pass beyond the stop  227 , which permits the locking flexure member to return inwards to its previous radial position. As shown in  FIG. 6C , the stop  227  may abut the pump shoulder  203  and urge the pump shoulder  204  against the support surface (or lower edge of the dispenser cover portion  224   a ), to thereby secure the pump  202  against the dispenser cover. In some variations, the stop  227  may also include an upper sloped surface that facilitates easier removal of the pump  202  from the dispenser cover with application of sufficient removal or separation force. 
     In some variations, the locking flexure member  226  may include a bias (e.g., inherent in the form or material of the flexure member) that urges the locking flexure member  226  radially inward, to thereby further secure the pump  202  within the dispenser cover. Additionally or alternatively, other locking features may help couple the pump to the dispenser cover. For example, the dispenser cover may include frictional features (e.g., ribs or other textural features, rubberized or other high-friction materials, etc.) located on an internal surface of the dispenser cover to engage the pump  202  within the dispenser cover. 
     In some variations, like the pump nest guide, the pump nest may be injection molded out of a suitably rigid plastic, though the pump nest may be formed in any suitable manner (e.g., 3D printed, milled, etc.). In some variations, the pump nest may include a material stable under gamma ray sterilization (e.g., HDPE). Furthermore, some or all of the dispenser covers may be integrally formed with the support surface. Additionally or alternatively, some or all of the dispenser covers may be separately formed from the support surface and be coupled to the support surface through a mechanical interfit (e.g., threads, snap fit, other mating features, etc.), suitable fasteners (e.g., epoxy, connectors, etc.), and/or suitable joining process (e.g., thermal welding). 
     An example variation of a pump nest (with 48 dispenser covers) is shown in greater detail in  FIGS. 15A-15G . Additionally, an example variation of a pump nest guide (with 24 dispenser covers) is shown in  FIGS. 16A-16G . 
     Thus, a set of multiple pumps may be packaged in a protective, orderly manner in a pump nest assembly as described above. For example, pumps may be nested between a pump nest guide and a pump nest such as those described above. This subassembly may be placed into a tub or other container, and may be sealed to contain the pump nest guide, pumps, and pump nest contained therein. To remove the pumps, (e.g., for assembling with containers, as described below) the tub seal (if present) may be removed, and the pump nest may be lifted out of the tub (or slid out, etc.). Since the pumps may be coupled to the pump nest via locking members or other locking features, removal of the pump nest may simultaneously result in collective or simultaneous removal of the pumps. The pump nest guide may remain in the tub when the pump nest and pumps are removed from the tub. Further details of methods for assembling nested components are described below. 
     Container Nest Assembly 
       FIG. 7A  depicts a schematic illustration of an example variation of a container nest assembly  700 . The container nest assembly may include one or more packaging structures in a tub  710  or other suitable container, where each packaging structure may contain a plurality of containers (e.g., bottles). The container nest assembly may, for example, store a plurality of bottles (e.g., glass or plastic bottles) in a protective and/or organized manner that reduces the likelihood of damage to the bottles. Packaging structures may sit within the tub  710  as shown in  FIG. 7A , and may be accessible through an upper tub opening. In some variations, an opening of the tub  710  may be sealed, such as with a seal  712 . The seal  712  may include, for example, a metal foil, plastic film, or any suitable material. The seal  712  may help maintain sterility of the contents of the container nest assembly  700  until the tub  710  is opened (e.g., by peeling off or otherwise breaching the seal  712 ), such as to access the packaging structures contained therein. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 7B-7D , the packaging structures in the container nest assembly may include one or more container nests  720 . A container nest  720  may include a support surface  722  and a plurality of container seats  724  arranged on the support surface. The support surface  722  may be configured to rest within a tub or other container. However, in some variations the container nest  720  may be a standalone packaging structure that is sealed directly, rather than (or in addition to) being sealed within a tub  710 . While the container nest  720  is shown in  FIG. 7B  as generally rectangular, it should be understood that the container nest  720  may have any suitable overall shape (e.g., circular, elliptical). Furthermore, similar to the pump nest  220  and pump nest guide  230  described above, the container nest  720  may include one or more cutouts  721  that may, for example, provide clearance for fingers between the tub wall and the support surface  722  to enable manual removal of the container nest  720  from the tub. Additionally or alternatively, in some variations the container nest  720  may include other suitable engagement features on the support surface  722  (e.g., around the perimeter of the support surface) or other portion of the container nest  720 . For example, the container nest  720  may include a suction cup, a smooth surface to which a suction cup or vacuum source may attach, other fasteners such as hooks, etc. to help facilitate handling of the container nest  720 . 
     The container seats  724  may be arranged on the support surface  722  in an array similar to that described above for the dispenser seats  234  in the pump nest guide  230 . For example, the container seats  724  may be arranged in a regular array (e.g., hexagonal, rectangular, etc.), irregular array, or any suitable layout pattern. While the variation shown in  FIG. 7B  includes 48 container seats, it should be understood that the container nest  720  may include any suitable number of container seats. If the containers to be placed in the container nest  700  are intended to be assembled with pumps in the pump nest assembly described above, then the layout arrangement of the container seats  724  in the container nest may be identical to the layout arrangement of the pumps (and dispenser covers and dispenser seats) in the pump nest assembly, such that alignment of the container nest with the pump nest results in collective alignment of the containers with corresponding pumps. 
     In some variations, as shown in  FIGS. 7C and 7D , a container seat  724  may be defined by one or more walls. The walls may form a recess with a base. In some variations, the recess may be arranged below the support surface  722 , though the recess may additionally or alternatively be above the support surface  722 . For example, a first portion of the container seat  724  may be arranged on a first side (e.g., upper side) of the support surface, while a second portion may be arranged on a second side (e.g., lower side) of the support surface, such that when a container  702  is in the container seat  724 , part of the container may lie above the support surface and part of the container may lie below the support surface. In the variation shown in  FIGS. 7C and 7D , one or more walls may function as partitions to define discrete container seats, where each container seat is configured to receive a respective container. 
     The walls may be curved, linear, or any suitable shape to accommodate the containers. In some variations, as shown in  FIG. 7D , the walls  726  may be contoured to generally follow the curvature of the containers  702 , which may, for example, encourage close packing of the containers for efficient use of space in the container nest. The walls  726  may include segments of varying heights. In some variations, the walls  726  may include continuous structures that extend from one side of the array of container seats to an opposite side of the array of container seats, though in some variations at least some walls  726  may include discrete segments. For example, in some variations only a portion of a perimeter of a container seat may be surrounded by walls, while in some variations the entire perimeter of the container seat may be surrounded by walls. 
     Furthermore, in some variations, at least some of the container seats  724  may include one or more spacers  728 . The spacers  728  may function to create sufficient distance between adjacent containers to help prevent contact between the adjacent containers when the container nest  720  is jostled or otherwise in movement. The spacers  728  may, for example, project radially inward toward the middle of the container seat  724 , and may be arranged in equal or unequal distribution around the perimeter of the container seat  724 . In some variations, the spacers  728  may include longitudinal ridges on the one or more walls  726 , and extend radially inward a sufficient distance so as to allow a container to self-center into the container seat. In some variations, a container seat  724  may include additional cushioning material (e.g., foam, cloth) that may absorb impact to further protect the container from damage. 
     Additionally or alternatively, the container nest  720  may include one or more openings. As shown in  FIG. 7D , in some variations, a container seat  724  may include at least one opening  721  in a base of the container seat  724 . The opening  721  may, for example, help equalize air pressure so as to enable easy settling of the container in the container seat  724  and/or easy removal of the container from the container seat  724 . The opening  721  may additionally or alternatively reduce weight of the container nest and/or reduce manufacturing cost due to reducing amount of material in the container nest  720 . The opening  721  may have any suitable shape. For example, while the opening  721  is shown in  FIG. 7D  to be circular, in some variations the opening  721  may be in the shape of any polygon, irregular shape, or custom pattern. Furthermore, a container seat  724  may include multiple openings (e.g., two, three, four, five, or more) in the base or other suitable portion of the container seat  724 . 
     In some variations, the container nest may be injection molded out of a suitably rigid plastic, though the container nest may be formed in any suitable manner (e.g., 3D printed, milled, etc.). In some variations, the container nest may include a material stable under gamma ray sterilization (e.g., HDPE). Furthermore, some or all of the container seats may be integrally formed with the support surface. Additionally or alternatively, some or all of the container seats may be separately formed from the support surface and be coupled to the support surface through a mechanical interfit (e.g., threads, snap fit, other mating features, etc.), suitable fasteners (e.g., epoxy, connectors, etc.), and/or suitable joining process (e.g., thermal welding). 
     An example variation of a container nest (with 48 container seats) is shown in greater detail in  FIGS. 17A-17E . 
     Dropper Nest Assembly 
       FIG. 8A  depicts a schematic illustration of an example variation of a dropper nest assembly  800 . The eyedropper nest assembly may include one or more packaging structures in a tub  810  or other suitable container, where each packaging structure may include a plurality of dispensers (e.g., drop dispensers, such as eyedroppers). The dropper nest assembly  820  may, for example, store a plurality of drop dispensers in a protective and/or organized manner that reduces the likelihood of damage to the dropper dispensers. Packaging structures may sit within the tub  810  as shown in  FIG. 8A , and may be accessible through an upper tub opening. In some variations, an opening of the tub  810  may be sealed, such as with a seal similar to that described above for the pump nest assembly and container nest assembly. The seal may help maintain sterility of the contents of the dropper nest assembly  800  until the tub  810  is opened. 
     As shown in  FIG. 8A , the packaging structures in the dropper nest assembly may include one or more dropper nests  820 . A single dropper nest  820  may be contained in the tub  810 , or multiple dropper nests  820  may be layered or stacked in a single tub  810 . However, in some variations the dropper nest  820  may be a standalone packaging structure that is sealed directly, rather than (or in addition to) being sealed within a tub  810 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 8B , a dropper nest  820  may include a support surface  822  and a plurality of dispenser covers  824  arranged on the support surface  822 . Each of the dispenser covers  824  may be configured to receive and/or engage with a respective drop dispenser (e.g., eyedropper). Like the packaging structures described above, while the dropper nest  820  is shown in  FIG. 8B  as generally rectangular, it should be understood that the dropper nest  820  may have any suitable overall shape (e.g., circular, elliptical). Furthermore, the dropper nest  820  may include one or more cutouts  821  that may, for example, provide clearance for fingers between the tub wall and the support surface  822  to enable manual removal of the dropper nest  820  from the tub. Additionally or alternatively, in some variations the dropper nest  820  may include other suitable engagement features on the support surface  822  (e.g., around the perimeter of the support surface) or other portion of the dropper nest  820 . For example, the dropper nest  820  may include a suction cup, a smooth surface to which a suction cup or vacuum source may attach, other fasteners such as hooks, etc. to help facilitate handling of the dropper nest  820 . 
     In some variations, a dropper nest  820  may include one or more spacers that may enforce a certain distance between adjacent layered or stacked dropper nests  820 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 8B , a dropper nest  820  may include one or more spacers  828  arranged on the support surface  822  or other suitable surface. The variation shown in  FIG. 8B  includes four spacers  828  arranged on corners of the support surface  822 , though in other variations the dropper nest  820  may include any suitable number of spacers  828  arranged in any suitable layout pattern. The spacers  828  may include projections extending upwards and/or downwards from the support surface  822 , and may be integrally formed with or coupled to the support surface  822 . In some variations, the spacers  828  of one dropper nest  820  may be aligned with the spacers  828  of an adjacent dropper nest  820  (e.g., a dropper nest  820  arranged above and/or a dropper nest  820  arranged below), such that each spacer  828  may removably engage with a spacer  828  on an adjacent dropper nest  820 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 8C , a spacer  828  may include an upper portion  828   a  and a lower portion  828   b , where the upper portion  828   a  may couple to the lower portion of a spacer on an adjacent dropper nest located above the upper portion  828   a , and similarly the lower portion  828   b  may couple to the upper portion of a spacer on an adjacent dropper nest located underneath the lower portion  828   b . Such coupling may include the engagement of mating features. For example, as shown in  FIG. 8C , the upper portion  828   a  may include a longitudinal projection including a distal tip of a smaller diameter configured to fit inside an internal recess located in the lower portion of an adjacent spacer. As another example, the upper portion  828   a  may include a recess configured to receive lower portion of an adjacent spacer. However, spacers  828  on adjacent dropper nests  820  may engage in any suitable manner, such as with fasteners (e.g., magnetic elements) or other mechanical interfit features (e.g., with slip fit interference). 
     Similar to other packaging structures described above, the dispenser covers  824  may be arranged on the support surface  822  in an array, such as a regular array (e.g., hexagonal, rectangular, etc.), irregular array, or any suitable layout pattern. While the variation shown in  FIG. 8B  includes 48 dispenser covers, it should be understood that the dropper nest  820  may include any suitable number of dispenser covers. Similar to the pump nest described above, in some variations such as that shown in  FIG. 8F , adjacent dispenser covers  824  may be coupled, such as with one or more interconnecting walls  823  that extend between adjacent dispenser covers  824 . Additionally or alternatively, adjacent dispenser covers may share a common structure such as a wall as shown in  FIG. 8F . 
     In some variations, a dispenser cover  824  may be defined by one or more walls that are configured to surround a drop dispenser  802  or a group of drop dispensers  802 . The wall may be contoured to closely follow the contour of drop dispenser(s)  802 , which may help enable space efficient packing of drop dispensers in the dropper nest  820 . While the variation shown in  FIG. 8B  include substantially continuous walls that extend along a row of dispenser covers  824 , in some variations some or all dispenser covers  824  may be formed from multiple, discrete walls that are configured to surround at least a portion of the perimeter of the dispenser to be contained in the dispenser cover  824 . In some variations, some or all of the dispenser covers  824  may have a closed top or distal end as shown in  FIG. 8F , though in some variations some or all of the dispenser covers  824  may have a closed end to completely cover a drop dispenser  802  contained therein. Furthermore, in some variations, as shown in  FIGS. 8G and 8H  depicting another example variation of a dropper nest, some or all of the dispenser covers  824  may include at least one opening or through hole  832  or other open top to allow access to individual drop dispensers  802  contained in the dispenser cover  824 . For example, to assemble a drop dispenser  802  and corresponding dropper container using the variation shown in  FIGS. 8G and 8H , the drop dispenser  802  may be directly accessed through hole  832  to individually compress the drop dispenser  802  onto its corresponding dropper container located below the drop dispenser  802 . Although the holes  832  are shown in  FIGS. 8G and 8H  as circular and centered in each dispenser cover  824 , it should be understood that in some variations the holes  832  may have any suitable shape (e.g., oval, elliptical, rectangular, square, other polygonal shape, etc.) and may be centered or off-centered in the dispenser cover  824 . Each of a plurality of drop dispensers  802  may be assembled (coupled to a respective dropper container) in sequence using this technique. This may be useful, for example, to reduce the amount of compression required to be exerted by a robotic manipulator or manual manipulator at any one time to result in successful assembly. It should be understood that multiple drop dispensers  802  (e.g., two, three, four, an entire row, an entire column, etc.) may also be simultaneously assembled through direct contact through holes  832  in the dispenser covers  824  (e.g., provided that a sufficient amount of compression can be exerted to effect multiple simultaneous assemblies). 
     Additionally or alternatively, in some variations a dispenser cover  824  may include one or more alignment features (e.g., similar to that described above with respect to the pump nest guide and/or pump nest) to orient a drop dispenser in a predetermined rotational orientation within the dispenser cover  824 . 
     Furthermore, in some variations, a dispenser cover may include one or more locking members configured to couple a drop dispenser to the dispenser cover. For example, as shown in  FIG. 8D , a dispenser cover  824  may include at least one locking flexure member  826  configured to couple a drop dispenser to the dispenser cover  824 . In some variations, a dispenser cover may include multiple locking members (e.g., two locking flexure members  826 ). The locking members may be distributed equally or radially symmetrically around the dispenser cover, so as to retain the pump in the dispenser cover in a balanced manner. For example, as shown in  FIG. 8D , a dispenser cover  824  may include two locking flexure members  826  arranged 180 degrees rotationally offset from each other. In some variations, the locking member(s) may engage with a radial projection of the drop dispenser  802  to couple the drop dispenser  802  to the dispenser cover  824 . When the locking members across the dropper nest  820  couple a set of multiple drop dispensers  802  to the dropper nest  820 , all secured dispenser  802  may advantageously be manipulated (e.g., transported) by handling the dropper nest  820  itself, as further described below. Accordingly, the dropper nest with such locking members may enable easy, efficient handling of multiple dispensers simultaneously. 
       FIG. 8F  illustrates an example variation of a locking flexure member  826  coupling to a drop dispenser  802 . The locking flexure members  826  may be formed from or coupled to the dispenser cover  824 , though in other variations similar structures may be located in another part of the pump nest  220 . As shown in  FIG. 8F , a locking flexure member  826  may include an arm with a fixed proximal end and a free distal end with a stop  827 . The locking flexure member may generally extend longitudinally along the dispenser cover  824 , parallel to a central axis of the dispenser cover, and may be configured to flex in a radial direction (e.g., relative to the central axis of the dispenser cover). For example, the locking flexure member  826  may flex radially outward to receive the drop dispenser  802  within the dispenser cover  824 . The locking flexure member  826  may be similar in shape to the locking flexure member  226  described above with respect to  FIGS. 6B and 6C . For example, the stop  827  may include a lower sloped surface to further ease passage of the drop dispenser  802  into the dispenser cover  824 . When the drop dispenser  802  reaches a certain insertion depth into the dispenser cover  824 , a radial rib  803  or other projection on the drop dispenser  802  may pass beyond the stop  827 , which permits the locking flexure member to return inwards to its previous radial position. As shown in  FIG. 8F , the stop  827  may abut the radial rib  803  and urge the drop dispenser  802  against a surface (e.g., shoulder surface or covered top) of the dispenser cover  802 , to thereby secure the drop dispenser  802  against the dispenser cover. In some variations, the stop  827  may also include an upper sloped surface that facilitates easier removal of the drop dispenser  802  from the dispenser cover with application of sufficient removal or separation force. 
     In some variations, the locking flexure member  826  may include a bias (e.g., inherent in the form or material of the flexure member) that urges the locking flexure member  826  radially inward, to thereby further secure the drop dispenser  802  within the dispenser cover. Additionally or alternatively, other locking features may help couple the pump to the dispenser cover. For example, the dispenser cover may include frictional features (e.g., ribs or other textural features, rubberized or other high-friction materials, etc.) located on an internal surface of the dispenser cover to engage the drop dispenser  802  within the dispenser cover. 
     In some variations, like the packaging structure described above, the dropper nest  820  may be injection molded out of a suitably rigid plastic, though the dropper nest may be formed in any suitable manner (e.g., 3D printed, milled, etc.). In some variations, the dropper nest  820  may include a material stable under gamma ray sterilization (e.g., HDPE). Furthermore, some or all of the dispenser covers may be integrally formed with the support surface. Additionally or alternatively, some or all of the dispenser covers may be separately formed from the support surface and be coupled to the support surface through a mechanical interfit (e.g., threads, snap fit, other mating features, etc.), suitable fasteners (e.g., epoxy, connectors, etc.), and/or suitable joining process (e.g., thermal welding). 
     An example variation of a dropper nest (with 48 dispenser covers) is shown in greater detail in  FIGS. 18A-18G . 
     Dropper Container Nest Assembly 
       FIG. 9A  depicts a schematic illustration of an example variation of a dropper container nest assembly  900 . The dropper container nest assembly  900  may include one or more packaging structures in a tub  910  or other suitable containers, where each packaging structure may contain a plurality of containers (e.g., bottles). The dropper container nest assembly may, for example, store a plurality of bottles (e.g., flexible bottles, such as made of pliable plastic) in a protective and/or organized manner that reduces the likelihood of damage to the bottles and/or enables easy collective transport of the bottles. Packaging structures may sit within the tub  910  as shown in  FIG. 7A , and may be accessible through an upper tub opening, which may be sealed (e.g., with a seal  912  may include metal foil, plastic film, or any suitable material). The seal  912  may help maintain sterility of the contents of the dropper container nest  900  until the tub is opened (e.g., by peeling off or otherwise breaching the seal  912 ), such as to access the packaging structure(s) contained therein. 
     Dropper Container Nest 
     As shown in  FIG. 9B , the packaging structures in the dropper container nest assembly may include one or more dropper container nests  920 . In some variations, the dropper container nests  920  may be similar to the container nests  720  described above. For example, a dropper container nest  920  may include a support surface  922  and a plurality of container seats  824  arranged on the support surface. Additionally, a dropper container nest  920  may be configured to rest within the tub  910  or other container, or may be a standalone structure that is sealed directly, rather than (or in addition to) being sealed within the tub. A dropper container nest  920  may be generally rectangular as shown in  FIG. 9B , or may have any suitable shape. A dropper container nest  920  may include one or more cutouts  921  to help facilitate manual removal of the dropper container nest  920  from the tub, and/or may include any suitable engagement features (e.g., suction, a smooth surface to which a suction cup or vacuum source may attach, fasteners, etc.) to help facilitate handling of the dropper container nest  920 . 
     Furthermore, the container seats  924  may arranged on the support surface in an array similar to that described above for the dispenser covers  824  in a dropper nest  820  (e.g., regular array such as hexagonal or rectangular, an irregular array, or any suitable layout pattern). If the containers to be placed in the dropper container nest  920  are intended to be assembled with drop dispensers in the dropper nest assembly  820 , then the layout arrangement of the container seats  924  may be identical to the layout arrangement of the dispenser covers  824 , such that the alignment of the dropper container nest  920  and the dropper nest  820  results in collective alignment of the containers with corresponding drop dispensers. Other aspects of the container seats  924  may be similar to those of the container seats  724  described above. Additionally or alternatively, in some variations some or all of the container seats  924  may have a bottom with at least one opening or through hole (e.g., similar to the container nest  720  described above with respect to  FIG. 7D ) to allow individual access to a dropper container contained therein. For example, to assemble a drop dispenser  802  and corresponding dropper container using a dropper container nest  920  having openings in the container seat bottom, the dropper container may be directly accessed through such openings to individually compress the dropper container onto its corresponding drop dispenser  802  above the dropper container. These openings may have any suitable shape (e.g., circular, oval, elliptical, other polygonal shape, etc.) and may be centered or off-centered within the container seat bottom. Each of a plurality of dropper containers may be assembled (coupled to a respective drop dispenser) in sequence using this technique. This may be useful, for example, to reduce the amount of compression required to be exerted by a robotic manipulator or manual manipulator at any one time to result in successful assembly. It should be understood that multiple dropper containers (e.g., two, three, four, an entire row, an entire column, etc.) may also be simultaneously assembled through direct contact through openings in the container seats  924  (e.g., provided that a sufficient amount of compression can be exerted to effect multiple simultaneous assemblies). 
     In some variations, the dropper container nest may be injection molded out of a suitably rigid plastic, though the dropper container nest may be formed in any suitable manner (e.g., 3D printed, milled, etc.). In some variations, the dropper container nest may include a material stable under gamma ray sterilization (e.g., HDPE). Furthermore, some or all of the container seats may be integrally formed with the support surface. Additionally or alternatively, some or all of the container seats may be separately formed from the support surface and be coupled to the support surface through a mechanical interfit (e.g., threads, snap fit, other mating features, etc.), suitable fasteners (e.g., epoxy, connectors, etc.), and/or suitable joining process (e.g., thermal welding). 
     Reinforcement Members 
     In some variations, the dropper container nest assembly  900  may further one or more reinforcement members  930 . The reinforcement members  930  may function to bolster the dropper containers  902  against deformation. For example, since dropper containers  902  may include a flexible or pliable material (e.g., to enable a user to expel a fluid from the dropper container  902  by squeezing the dropper container  902 ), the dropper containers  902  may be susceptible to buckling or other deformation when drop dispensers are coupled to the dropper containers through an axial force (e.g., applied from above the dropper containers). The reinforcement members  930  may include a material that is more rigid than the dropper containers  902  (e.g., rigid plastic, metal, etc.). Suitable materials may include, for example, polycarbonate, acrylic, ABS, PETG, rigid PVC, crystal styrene, etc. Additionally or alternatively, the reinforcement members  930  may substantially surround the body of the dropper containers  902  in a snug manner, so as to better absorb and/or distribute axial forces applied to the dropper containers  902  during dispenser assembly. 
     Some or all reinforcement members may be distinct and separable from the dropper container nest  920 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 9C , the reinforcement members  930  may be removed, along with dropper containers  902 , from the dropper container nest  920 . Alternatively, some or all reinforcement members may be coupled to or integrally formed with the dropper container nest  920 . The reinforcement members may be injection molded, milled, cast, or manufactured in any suitable manner. 
     In some variations, a reinforcement members  930  may be configured to engage with multiple dropper containers  902 , which may further help distribute forces across a greater area to help reduce deformation of the dropper containers  902 . For example, as shown in  FIGS. 9E and 9F , a group (e.g., row or column) of dropper containers  902  may be arranged between two scalloped reinforcement members  930 . Each scalloped segment of the reinforcement member  930  may be sized and shaped to receive a contoured portion (e.g., half) of a dropper container  902 . Furthermore, as shown in  FIG. 9D , each scalloped reinforcement member may include one or more mating features (e.g., pegs  932  and/or receiving holes  934 ) such that two opposite-facing reinforcement members  930  may align and mate appropriately to form a snug fit around the dropper containers  902  ( FIG. 9F ). Alternatively, multiple reinforcement members  930  may couple together in any suitable manner (e.g., along a hinge). While the scalloped shape of the reinforcement member  930  shown in  FIG. 9D  includes a semicircular scalloped segment to accommodate part of a cylindrical dropper container  902 , it should be understood that the reinforcement members  930  may have any suitable shape for other containers. For example, a reinforcement member  930  may include a sloped inner surface to accommodate a dropper container  902  with a wider base that tapers to a narrower neck. Alternatively, in some variations, the dropper container nest assembly  900  may include a discrete reinforcement member (e.g., sleeve, partial sleeve, collars, rings, etc.) for each respective dropper container  902 . 
     In some variations, the dropper container nest assembly  900  may include a shoulder or flange to engage with the dropper container nest  920 . For example, as shown in  FIGS. 9D and 9E , a reinforcement member may include a shoulder  936  configured to rest upon the support surface of the dropper container nest  920 . The shoulders  936  may function to further distribute axial forces applied to the dropper container  902  across the dropper container nest  920 , and/or help control the insertion depth of the reinforcement members  930  and/or dropper containers  902  within the container seats  924  in the dropper container nest  920 . 
     An example variation of a dropper container nest (with 48 container seats) is shown in greater detail in  FIG. 19 . Additionally, an example variation of a dropper container nest is shown in  FIGS. 20A-20E , while an example variation of reinforcement members is shown in  FIGS. 21A-21E . 
     Methods for Assembling Nested Components 
     As described above, various nested packaging assemblies may include packaging structures for storing and protecting individual component pieces (e.g., dispensers such as pumps or drop dispensers, or containers) that may be manipulated in sets to accommodate large-scale, collective or simultaneous assemblies (e.g., each assembly including a dispenser coupled to container). Furthermore, the nested packaging assemblies may be easily manipulated with automated equipment, such as equipment with robotic arms, etc. In some variations, the use of such automated equipment with the nested packaging assemblies, as described herein, may help reduce the number of manual operators who must interact with the components. Reducing manual involvement may be advantageous in certain applications, such as in the manufacture of drug container and dispenser assemblies which are subject to sterility requirements or goals. For example, in some variations, a method for assembling components from packaging structures (such as those described herein) may be performed to assemble dispenser assemblies that dispense drugs. For example, the method may be performed to assemble drug dispenser assemblies that contain preservative-free formulations for which it may be particularly important to maintain sterility. 
     Methods for assembling nested components may utilize one or more of the packaging assemblies and/or packaging structures described above. For example, as shown in the flowchart depicted in  FIG. 10 , an example variation of a method  1000  for assembling dispenser assemblies may include providing a first support structure comprising a plurality of dispenser covers  1010  and providing a second support structure comprising a plurality of container seats  1020 . A plurality of dispensers may be coupled to the dispenser covers, and a plurality of containers may be seated in the container seats. The method  1000  may further include filling the containers  1030  with a substance (e.g., drug) to be dispensed from the container, then aligning the first and second support structures  1040  to align the plurality of dispensers with the plurality of containers. After the first and second support structures are aligned, the method may further include manipulating the first support structure and/or the second support structure  1050  to simultaneously couple the plurality of dispensers to the plurality of containers. The coupled dispensers and containers form a plurality of dispenser assemblies, which may thereafter remain in one or both support structures, or may be removed for subsequent processing (e.g., labeling, further packaging, quality testing, shipment, etc.). In some variations, at least a portion of the method  1000  may be performed within a self-contained, aseptic isolator with robotic manipulator(s) suitable for manipulating nesting packaging structures such as those described herein. For example, at least a portion of the method  100  may be performed by an aseptic filling workcell available from Vanrx Pharmasystems Inc. (Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada), STERIS Applied Sterilization Technologies (Mentor, Ohio, USA), Aseptic Technologies (Raleigh, N.C., USA), Staubli Corporation (Duncan, S.C., USA), or other suitable automated filling equipment. Additionally or alternatively, at least a portion of the method  100  may be performed manually. 
       FIG. 11  depicts an example variation of a method for assembling pump dispenser assemblies, with reference to the pump nest assembly  200  (e.g., as shown in  FIG. 2A ) and the container nest assembly  700  (e.g., as shown in  FIG. 7A ). The pump nest assembly may include a tub containing a pump nest, a pump nest guide, and a plurality of pumps (e.g., nasal pumps) arranged in the pump nest and pump nest guide ( 1110 ). The pumps may be coupled to the pump nest. The container nest assembly may include another tub containing a container nest and a plurality of containers (e.g., drug containers) arranged in the container nest ( 1120 ). The container nest may be removed from its tub, such as with a robotic manipulator that engages the container nest with suction (or gripping features, etc.) ( 1122 ). The containers in the container nest may be filled with a desired substance (e.g., a liquid drug or other drug suitable for dispensing through a pump). Separately, the pump nest may be removed from its tub, separating the pump nest and pumps from the pump nest guide and the tub ( 1112 ). For example, a robotic manipulator may engage the pump nest with suction or in another suitable manner, and because the pumps are coupled to the pump nest (e.g., via locking members as described above), manipulation of the pump nest may efficiently enable manipulation of the pumps as well. Accordingly, the robotic manipulator(s) may align the pump nest over the container nest ( 1140 ), then move the pump nest and container nest toward each other (e.g., press the pump nest down toward the container nest). The pump nest and container nest may be moved closer together until the pumps and containers couple together, such as via snap fit ( 1150 ). Accordingly, manipulation of the pump nest and the container nest may effect simultaneous assembly of multiple pumps and containers. Additionally or alternatively, in some variations individual pumps in the pump nest and/or individual containers in the container nest may be separately manipulated to form only a selected portion of the assemblies among the array of pumps and containers. For example, a pump may be individually accessed through an opening in its dispenser cover in the pump nest, and pushed down toward its corresponding container. Additionally or alternatively, a container may be individually accessed through an opening in its container seat in the container nest, and pushed up toward its corresponding pump). Multiple assemblies may be formed in such a manner, and may advantageously permit efficient assembly using the pump nest assembly and container nest assembly even if the robotic manipulator is limited in its ability to exert compressive force to form all nested assemblies simultaneously. The resulting dispenser assemblies (each including a pump coupled to a filled container) may be organized within the container nest for further transport. In some variations, the dispenser assemblies may be collectively removed from the container nest ( 1150 ) by again manipulating the pump nest relative to the container nest. That is, because the pumps remain coupled to the pump nest and the containers are in turn coupled to the pumps, the array of dispenser assemblies may be collectively manipulated with the pump nest. 
     An example variation of a method for assembling drop dispenser assemblies is shown in  FIG. 12 , with reference to the dropper nest assembly  800  (e.g., as shown in  FIG. 8A ) and the dropper container nest assembly  900  (e.g., as shown in  FIG. 9A ). The dropper nest assembly may include a tub containing one or more stacked dropper nests ( 1210 ) and a plurality of drop dispensers (e.g., eyedropper dispensers) arranged in each dropper nest. The drop dispensers may be coupled to the dropper nests. The dropper container nest assembly may include another tub containing a dropper container nest, a plurality of dropper containers in the dropper container nest, and one or more reinforcement members arranged around the dropper containers ( 1220 ). The dropper container nest may be removed from its tub, such as with a robotic manipulator such as that described above (1222). The dropper containers in the dropper container nest may be filled with a desired substance (e.g., a liquid drug or other drug suitable for dispensing through a drop dispenser). Separately, a dropper nest may be removed from its tub, separating the dropper nest and drop dispensers from other dropper nests and the tub ( 1212 ). For example, a robotic manipulator may engage the dropper nest with suction or in another suitable manner, and because the drop dispensers are coupled to the dropper nest (e.g., via locking members as described above), manipulation of the dropper nest may efficiently enable manipulation of the drop dispensers as well. Accordingly, similar to the process described above, the robotic manipulator(s) may align the dropper nest over the dropper container nest ( 1240 ), then move the dropper nest and dropper container nest toward each other, such as by pressing the dropper nest down toward the dropper container nest. The dropper nest and dropper container nest may be moved closer together until the drop dispensers and the dropper containers couple together, such as via snap fit ( 1250 ). Accordingly, manipulation of the dropper nest and the dropper container nest may effect simultaneous assembly of multiple drop dispensers and dropper containers. Additionally or alternatively, in some variations individual drop dispensers in the dropper nest and/or individual dropper containers in the dropper container nest may be separately manipulated to form only a selected portion of the assemblies among the array of drop dispensers and dropper containers. For example, a drop dispenser may be individually accessed through an opening in its dispenser cover in the dropper nest, and pushed down toward its corresponding dropper container. Additionally or alternatively, a dropper container may be individually accessed through an opening in is container seat in the dropper container nest, and pushed up toward its corresponding drop dispenser. Multiple assemblies may be formed in such a manner, and may advantageously permit efficient assembly using the dropper nest assembly and dropper container nest assembly even if the robotic manipulator is limited in its ability to exert sufficient compressive force to form all nested assemblies simultaneously. The resulting dispenser assemblies (each including a drop dispenser coupled to a filled container) may be organized within the dropper container nest for further transport. In some variations, the dispenser assemblies may be collectively removed from the dropper container nest by again manipulating the dropper nest relative to the dropper container nest. That is, because the drop dispensers remain coupled to the dropper nest and the dropper containers are in turn coupled to the drop dispensers, the array of dispenser assemblies may be collectively manipulated with the dropper nest. 
     Enumerated Embodiments 
     Embodiment A1. A packaging structure for a plurality of drug dispensers, comprising: a support surface; and a plurality of dispenser covers arranged on the support surface; wherein at least one dispenser cover comprises a locking flexure member configured to couple a dispenser to the at least one dispenser cover. 
     Embodiment A2. The packaging structure of embodiment A1, wherein the flexure member is configured to engage with a radial projection of the drug dispenser. 
     Embodiment A3. The packaging structure of embodiment A2, wherein the flexure member is configured to flex in a radial direction relative to a central axis of the at least one dispenser cover. 
     Embodiment A4. The packaging structure of embodiment A3, wherein the flexure member comprises an arm extending parallel to the central axis of the at least one dispenser cover. 
     Embodiment A5. The packaging structure of embodiment A2, wherein the flexure member comprises a stop configured to abut the radial projection of the drug dispenser. 
     Embodiment A6. The packaging structure of embodiment A5, wherein the stop is configured to urge the radial projection of the drug dispenser against the at least one dispenser cover. 
     Embodiment A7. The packaging structure of embodiment A1, wherein the flexure member is a first flexure member, and wherein the at least one dispenser cover further comprises a second flexure member configured to retain the respective dispenser within the at least one dispenser cover. 
     Embodiment A8. The packaging structure of embodiment A7, wherein the first flexure member is opposite the second flexure member across the at least one dispenser cover. 
     Embodiment A9. The packaging structure of embodiment A1, wherein the support surface is planar. 
     Embodiment A10. The packaging structure of embodiment A1, further comprising at least one interconnecting wall extending between multiple dispenser covers. 
     Embodiment A11. The packaging structure of embodiment A1, wherein the dispenser covers are arranged in a regular array. 
     Embodiment A12. The packaging structure of embodiment A11, wherein the regular array is a hexagonal or rectangular array. 
     Embodiment A13. The packaging structure of embodiment A1, wherein the at least one dispenser cover comprises a first receptacle portion on a first side of the support surface. 
     Embodiment A14. The packaging structure of embodiment A13, wherein the flexure member is in the first receptacle portion. 
     Embodiment A15. The packaging structure of embodiment A13, wherein the at least one dispenser cover further comprises a second receptacle portion on a second side of the support surface. 
     Embodiment A16. The packaging structure of embodiment A1, wherein the at least one dispenser cover has a first open end and a second open end opposite the first open end. 
     Embodiment A17. The packaging structure of embodiment A1, wherein the at least one dispenser cover has an open end and a closed end opposite the open end. 
     Embodiment A18. A packaging assembly comprising the packaging structure of any one of embodiments A1 through A17, the packaging assembly further comprising a plurality of drug dispensers, wherein at least one of the drug dispensers comprises a cover for a drug container. 
     Embodiment A19. The packaging assembly of embodiment A18, wherein the cover comprises a spray pump. 
     Embodiment A20. The packaging assembly of embodiment A19, wherein the flexure member is configured to engage with a flange of the spray pump. 
     Embodiment A21. The packaging assembly of embodiment A18, wherein the cover comprises a drop dispenser. 
     Embodiment A22. The packaging assembly of embodiment A21, wherein the flexure member is configured to engage with a radial rib of the drop dispenser. 
     Embodiment A23. The packaging assembly of embodiment A18, further comprising a plurality of drug containers coupled to the plurality of drug dispensers. 
     Embodiment A24. The packaging assembly of embodiment A23, further comprising a tub containing the packaging structure, the plurality of drug dispensers, and the plurality of drug containers. 
     Embodiment A25. The packaging assembly of embodiment A24, wherein the tub is sealed. 
     Embodiment A26. The packaging assembly of embodiment A18, wherein at least one of the drug containers comprises at least one of glass and plastic. 
     Embodiment B1. A packaging structure for a plurality of dispensers, comprising: a support surface; and a plurality of dispenser seats arranged on the support surface, wherein at least one dispenser seat comprises a base having an opening, a wall extending from the base, and at least one alignment feature configured to engage with an engagement feature in a dispenser to thereby orient the dispenser in the at least one dispenser seat. 
     Embodiment B2. The packaging structure of embodiment B1, wherein the at least one dispenser seat comprises a second opening opposite the base. 
     Embodiment B3. The packaging structure of embodiment B1, wherein the at least one alignment feature comprises a cutout in the wall. 
     Embodiment B4. The packaging structure of embodiment B3, wherein the at least one alignment feature comprises a first alignment feature, and wherein the at least one dispenser seat comprises a second alignment feature. 
     Embodiment B5. The packaging structure of embodiment B4, wherein the first alignment feature is opposite the second alignment feature across the at least one dispenser seat. 
     Embodiment B6. The packaging structure of embodiment B1, wherein the support surface is planar. 
     Embodiment B7. The packaging structure of embodiment B6, further comprising at least one interconnecting wall extending between multiple dispenser seats. 
     Embodiment B8. The packaging structure of embodiment B1, wherein the dispenser seats are arranged in a regular array. 
     Embodiment B9. The packaging structure of embodiment B8, wherein the regular array is a hexagonal or rectangular array. 
     Embodiment B10. A packaging assembly comprising the packaging structure of any one of embodiments B1 through B9, the packaging assembly further comprising a plurality of drug dispensers, wherein at least one drug dispenser comprises a cover for a drug container. 
     Embodiment B11. The packaging assembly of embodiment B10, wherein the at least one drug dispenser comprises a drug-dispensing tube extending from the cover. 
     Embodiment B12. The packaging assembly of embodiment B11, wherein the cover comprises a spray pump and the drug-dispensing tube comprises a dip tube. 
     Embodiment B13. The packaging assembly of embodiment B10, wherein the packaging structure is a first packaging structure, wherein the packaging assembly further comprises a second packaging structure, the second packaging structure comprising a second support surface and a plurality of dispenser covers arranged on the second support surface. 
     Embodiment B14. The packaging assembly of embodiment B13, wherein at least one dispenser cover comprises a flexure member configured to retain a dispenser within the at least one dispenser cover. 
     Embodiment B15. The packaging assembly of embodiment B14, further comprising a tub containing the first packaging structure, the plurality of drug dispensers, and the second packaging structure. 
     Embodiment B16. The packaging assembly of embodiment B15, wherein the tub is sealed. 
     Embodiment C1. A method for assembling dispenser assemblies, the method comprising: providing a first support structure comprising a plurality of dispenser covers, wherein each of a plurality of dispensers is coupled to a respective dispenser cover via a locking flexure member; providing a second support structure comprising a plurality of container seats, wherein each of a plurality of containers is seated in a respective container seat; aligning the first support structure and the second support structure to align the plurality of dispensers with the plurality of containers; and manipulating at least one of the first support structure and the second support structure to simultaneously couple the plurality of dispensers to the plurality of containers. 
     Embodiment C2. The method of embodiment C1, wherein at least one of the dispensers comprises a cover for one of the plurality of containers. 
     Embodiment C3. The method of embodiment C2, wherein the cover comprises a spray pump. 
     Embodiment C4. The method of embodiment C2, wherein the cover comprises a drop dispenser. 
     Embodiment C5. The method of embodiment C1, wherein each of the plurality of dispensers is coupleable to a respective container via snap fit. 
     Embodiment C6. The method of embodiment C1, further comprising filling the plurality of containers with a substance. 
     Embodiment C7. The method of embodiment C6, wherein the substance comprises a drug. 
     Embodiment C8. The method of embodiment C7, wherein the drug does not comprise a preservative. 
     Embodiment C9. The method of embodiment C1, wherein aligning the plurality of dispensers with the plurality of containers comprises coupling a robotic manipulator to at least one of the first support structure and the second support structure. 
     Embodiment C10. The method of embodiment C9, wherein coupling the robotic manipulator to at least one of the first support structure and the second support structure comprises coupling the robotic manipulator to at least one of the first support structure and the second support structure with suction. 
     Embodiment C11. The method of embodiment C9, further comprising removing the first support structure from a tub with the robotic manipulator. 
     Embodiment C12. The method of embodiment C1, further comprising sterilizing the plurality of dispensers and plurality of containers. 
     Embodiment D1. A packaging assembly, comprising: a base; a plurality of containers arranged on the base, wherein the containers comprise a first material having a first rigidity; and at least one reinforcement member coupled to at least one container, wherein the at least one reinforcement member comprises a second material having a second rigidity greater than the first rigidity. 
     Embodiment D2. The packaging assembly of embodiment D1, wherein the base comprises a plurality of container seats, each container seat configured to receive a respective container. 
     Embodiment D3. The packaging assembly of embodiment D2, wherein the container seats are arranged in a regular array. 
     Embodiment D4. The packaging assembly of embodiment D3, wherein the regular array is a hexagonal array or a rectangular array. 
     Embodiment D5. The packaging assembly of embodiment D1, wherein the at least one reinforcement member conforms to an outer surface of at least one container. 
     Embodiment D6. The packaging assembly of embodiment D5, wherein the at least one reinforcement member comprises a first member portion configured to couple to a second member portion, wherein the first member portion and the second member portion, when coupled, define at least one container-receiving volume. 
     Embodiment D7. The packaging assembly of embodiment D6, wherein the first member portion and second member portion, when coupled, define a plurality of container-receiving volumes. 
     Embodiment D8. The packaging assembly of embodiment D6, wherein the at least one container-receiving volume is cylindrical. 
     Embodiment D9. The packaging assembly of embodiment D1, further comprising a tub containing the base, the plurality of containers, and the at least one reinforcement member. 
     Embodiment D10. The packaging assembly of embodiment D9, wherein the tub is sealed. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that specific details are not required in order to practice the invention. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the invention are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed; obviously, many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, they thereby enable others skilled in the art to utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the following claims and their equivalents define the scope of the invention.