Patent Publication Number: US-11655070-B2

Title: Contact lens blister packages and methods for recycling same

Description:
This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of prior U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/347,706, filed Jun. 1, 2022, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/347,732, filed Jun. 1, 2022, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/225,976, filed Jul. 27, 2021, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/350,043, filed Jun. 8, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/350,238, filed Jun. 8, 2022, which are all incorporated in their entirety by reference herein. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The present invention relates to contact lens packaging and the recycling of at least parts of the packaging. More particularly, the present invention relates to contact lens packages that are connectable with each other. The present invention further relates to various methods to recycle at least a plurality of base members of such packages after they are used. 
     BACKGROUND 
     There are various demands on consumer products from an environmental impact point of view and recycling point of view. The contact lens industry has struggled in the past to address these needs partly due to the size and shape of the contact lens blister packaging that has in the past been used. 
     Further with respect to recycling, newly manufactured contact lenses are frequently packaged in contact lens blister packages or blister packs. For example, a newly manufactured contact lens will be placed in a cavity or bowl of a plastic base member of a contact lens blister package, a contact lens packaging solution will be provided in the blister package cavity, and a foil sealing member will be adhered to the top surface of the base member to hermetically seal the contact lens and packaging solution, in the cavity. In other words, a contact lens blister package contains a base member having a cavity, an unworn contact lens provided in packaging solution within the cavity, and a sealing member sealed to the base member to provide an air tight seal around the perimeter of the cavity. 
     Base members of blister packages are generally formed of a plastic or thermoplastic material. It is common for a user to peel away the sealing member, take the unworn contact lens out of the cavity, and discard the empty blister package, or the plastic base member, in the trash such that it is not recycled. Each individual blister package, or plastic base member, is too small to be recycled as plastic at most recycling centers because most recycling processes for plastic require minimum dimensions of the plastic to be recycled. If such dimensions are not met, most recycling processing lines have steps to remove these smaller objects and avoid recycling them. In other words, objects like individual blister packages are not recycled and instead are treated as non-recyclable trash or waste. The material that the contact lens package is made of, however, is a recyclable material. Accordingly, there is a need to address this problem so that contact lens packaging can be recycled by recycling centers. 
     It can be appreciated that there remains an important environmental need to improve contact lens packaging to reduce the environmental impact of the packaging. 
     SUMMARY 
     A feature of the present invention is to provide a contact lens blister package, especially the base member, that is configured so that multiple contact lens blister packages can be connectable (e.g., mechanically fastened together). 
     An additional feature of the present invention is to provide a contact lens blister package that have the ability to be connected together and yet provides the same or comparable structural features of conventional blister packages in use previously. 
     A further feature of the present invention is to provide a contact lens wearer with the ability to successfully have the contact lens package (or a portion thereof) accepted as recyclable material at a recycling facility or MRF (Materials Recovery Facility). 
     An additional feature of the present invention is to provide a method for a contact lens wearer or purchaser to easily recycle contact lens packages or portions thereof (e.g., curbside recycling). 
     A further feature of the present invention is to provide a contact lens wearer or purchaser a simple way to recycle used or opened contact lens packages, for example, by curbside recycling. 
     Also, a feature of the present invention is to provide a way to recycle used or opened contact lens packages as a collective unit such that the packages that form the collective unit preferably do not break or separate during transport to and during initial processing steps at a recycling facility. 
     Additional features and advantages of the present invention will be set forth in part in the description that follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the present invention. The objectives and other advantages of the present invention will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the description and appended claims. 
     To achieve these and other advantages, and in accordance with the purposes of the present invention, as embodied and broadly described herein, the present invention, in part, relates to a contact lens blister package that includes a thermoplastic base member. The thermoplastic base member includes a bowl that defines a blister cavity. The blister cavity is dimensioned to accommodate a contact lens. The thermoplastic base member also includes a flange. The flange projects away from the blister cavity. The flange provides a sealing ring region circumscribing the blister cavity. The flange has a first proximal end providing a gripping portion configured to be held between a thumb and a finger of a contact lens wearer, and a second distal end extending away from the proximal end from the opposite side of the blister cavity. The blister package further includes a liquid contact lens packaging solution (at room temperature or 20 to 25 deg C.) provided in the blister cavity and an unworn contact lens located in the contact lens packaging solution in the blister cavity. The blister package further includes a sealing member hermetically sealed to the sealing ring region of the thermoplastic base member to maintain the contact lens in a sterile condition. The flange comprises at least one connecting feature located between an outer perimeter of the sealing ring region and the proximal end of the flange. The one connecting member being configured to mechanically fasten the thermoplastic base member to a second substantially identical thermoplastic base member of another contact lens blister package to form a thermoplastic base member assembly. 
     The connecting member can be an interlocking feature(s) and/or a stackable feature(s) configured such that two or more used or empty thermoplastic base members of the contact lens blister package can be interlocked or stacked together securely, such as for recycling purposes. 
     The present invention, in part, further relates to a method of manufacturing a packaged contact lens. The method includes the steps of providing a contact lens blister package as described herein, placing a contact lens into the blister cavity of the thermoplastic base member, placing a volume of liquid contact lens packaging solution into the blister cavity of the thermoplastic base member; and sealing a sealing member to the sealing rim region of the thermoplastic base member. The method can further include autoclaving the sealed contact lens blister package to sterilize the contact lens and the packaging solution. 
     In addition, the present invention relates to a method of recycling the contact lens blister package as described herein. The method includes the steps of removing the sealing member from the thermoplastic base member and then removing the contact lens from the blister cavity; and then removing the liquid contact lens packaging solution from the blister cavity. The method then includes coupling at least two of the thermoplastic base members of two contact lens blister packages by utilizing the connecting member that is part of the base member. The coupling can be or include inserting the proximal end of one thermoplastic base member into the hole of the second thermoplastic base member to form a thermoplastic base member assembly, or coupling at least two of the thermoplastic base members of two contact lens blister packages by inserting the bowl or blister cavity of one thermoplastic base member into the bowl or blister cavity of the second thermoplastic base member to form the thermoplastic base member assembly, or coupling at least two of the thermoplastic base members of two contact lens blister packages by inserting a pin or post (e.g., located on or near the proximal end) of one thermoplastic base member into a receiving slot or receptable (e.g., located on or near the proximal end) of the second thermoplastic base member to form the thermoplastic base member assembly. The connecting of two or more base members can form a mechanical connection (e.g., a mechanical interlock or mechanical stacking). The connection of two or more base members can provide an interference fit as part of the mechanical connection. 
     It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are intended to provide a further explanation of the present invention, as claimed. 
     The accompanying drawings, though not drawn to scale, exemplify relative dimensions that can be used. The accompanying drawings are incorporated in and constitute a part of this application and illustrate some of the features of the present invention. The drawings, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present invention. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1 A  is a top view of a contact lens package base member according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG.  1 B  is a bottom view of the contact lens package base member shown in  FIG.  1 A . 
         FIG.  2 A  is a side cut-away view of a recyclable assembly of two contact lens package base members each of which is individually shown in  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B . 
         FIG.  2 B  is an enlarged view of the connecting members (hole/clip) shown in  FIG.  2 A . 
         FIG.  3    is a bottom, side perspective view of a recyclable assembly of a plurality of base members shown in  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B . 
         FIG.  4    is a cross-sectional side view of a contact lens package including a sealed base member and a contact lens and contact lens packaging solution contained therein, wherein the base member is the base member shown in  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B . 
         FIG.  5 A  is a top view of another embodiment of a thermoplastic base member according to the present invention. 
         FIG.  5 B  is a bottom view of the base member shown in  FIG.  5 A . 
         FIG.  6 A  is a top view of another embodiment of a thermoplastic base member according to the present invention. 
         FIG.  6 B  is a partial cut-away view of the bottom surface of the handle end of the base member shown in  FIG.  6 A . 
         FIG.  7 A  is a top side perspective view of another embodiment of a thermoplastic base member according to the present invention. 
         FIG.  7 B  is a bottom side perspective view of the contact lens package base member shown in  FIG.  7 A . 
         FIG.  8 A  is a side perspective view of two base members shown in  FIGS.  7 A and  7 B  being initially connected together before the interlocking of the two base members. 
         FIG.  8 B  is a cross-sectional side view of the recyclable assembly of a plurality of base members shown in  FIG.  8 A  once connected together. 
         FIG.  9    is a perspective view of a plurality of base members shown in  FIGS.  7 A and  7 B  connected together to form the recyclable assembly. 
         FIG.  10 A  is a top view of another embodiment of a thermoplastic base member according to the present invention. 
         FIG.  10 B  is a partial cut-away view of the bottom surface of the handle end of the base member shown in  FIG.  10 A . 
         FIG.  11 A  is a top side perspective view of another embodiment of a thermoplastic base member according to the present invention. 
         FIG.  11 B  is a bottom side perspective view of the base member shown in  FIG.  11 A . 
         FIG.  12    is a partial cut away view of the handle ends of two base members shown in  FIG.  11 A  connected together. 
         FIG.  13    is a side perspective view of a plurality of base members shown in  FIGS.  11 A and  11 B  connected together to form the recyclable assembly. 
         FIG.  14 A  is a top side perspective view of another embodiment of a thermoplastic base member according to the present invention. 
         FIG.  14 B  is a bottom side perspective view of the base member shown in  FIG.  14 A . 
         FIG.  15    is a partial cut away side view of two base members shown in  FIG.  14 A  connected together. 
         FIG.  16    is a top side perspective view of a plurality of base members shown in  FIGS.  14 A and  14 B  connected together to form the recyclable assembly. 
         FIG.  17 A  is a top side perspective view of another embodiment of a thermoplastic base member according to the present invention. 
         FIG.  17 B  is a bottom side perspective view of the base member shown in  FIG.  17 A . 
         FIG.  18    is a partial cut away view of the handle ends of two base members shown in  FIG.  17 A  connected together by stacking. 
         FIG.  19    is a top side perspective view of a plurality of base members shown in  FIGS.  17 A and  17 B  connected together to form the recyclable assembly. 
         FIG.  20 A  is a top side perspective view of another embodiment of a thermoplastic base member according to the present invention. 
         FIG.  20 B  is a bottom side perspective view of the base member shown in  FIG.  20 A . 
         FIG.  21    is a partial cut away view of the handle ends of two base members shown in  FIG.  20 A  connected together by stacking. 
         FIG.  22    is a top side perspective view of a plurality of base members shown in  FIGS.  20 A and  20 B  connected together to form the recyclable assembly. 
         FIG.  23    is a top view of a further contact lens package base member according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention that includes a vertex shaped sealing rim. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The present invention relates to contact lens packages or contact lens blister packages, as well as to methods of manufacturing contact lenses, and methods of recycling used contact lens packages or the base members of the contact lens packages. 
     The present invention also relates to a contact lens package that includes a thermoplastic base member that includes at least one connecting feature that permits the connection of at least one base member to another base member. 
     The present invention further relates to a contact lens base member stack or assembly comprising a collection of used contact lens package base members that are connected together by a connecting feature. The base members, for instance, are mechanically fastened together by the connecting feature (e.g., using an interlocking feature and/or a stackable feature that can be present as part of the thermoplastic base member). 
     The present invention also relates to methods of attaching used contact lens package base members together to form a recyclable assembly of used contact lens package base members that is suitable as a recyclable material, for example, by exhibiting acceptable dimensions required or requested for recycling. 
     In one aspect of the present invention, when a connecting member (e.g., the interlocking feature or the stackable feature) is present on the thermoplastic base member, the present invention enables used contact lens package base members to become sorted, for example, processed, and recycled at recycling facilities, such as materials recovery facilities (MRFs). In other words, the present invention enables a user or other person to recycle used or opened contact lens package base members (e.g., blister packages) or portions thereof and enables the user or other person to form a recyclable unit from a plurality of opened or used contact lens package base members (e.g., blister package base members), wherein the unit exhibits dimensions that can be acceptable in size for sorting facilities and withstand the handling/sorting. Thus, with the present invention, recycling, such as curbside recycling, is possible and feasible and easy to accomplish by the contact lens wearer or purchaser. 
     The present invention provides a contact lens user or another person, with a simple way to recycle opened or used contact lens package base members, for example, by curbside recycling. 
     As an option, each of the contact lens base members can include one or more connecting members for connecting the base member or members of one or more other contact lens packages of the plurality, such that the so connected base packages, base members, or both, form a recyclable assembly, unit, or item. 
     In more detail, the present invention relates to a contact lens blister package that includes a thermoplastic base member. 
     The blister package of the present invention, including the thermoplastic base member, can have any design with respect to the base member and sealing member along with one or more of the connecting feature(s) or member(s), as further described herein. 
     Preferably, the thermoplastic base member has one of the designs or one or more of the features for the base members as described herein. 
     For purposes of the present invention, the term “thermoplastic base member” is used interchangeable with “base member” or “plastic base member”. The term “bowl” defines the same area as the “blister cavity”. 
     The thermoplastic base member has a shape and design or structural features that include a blister cavity or bowl or recess. 
     The blister package, and specifically, the thermoplastic base member, includes a bowl that defines a blister cavity dimensioned to accommodate a contact lens, such as a soft contact lens. 
     A soft contact lens can be a hydrogel contact lens in that it has an equilibrium water content (EWC) from 10-90%. Preferably, the soft contact lens is a silicone hydrogel contact lens (that is, a hydrogel contact lens that comprises polymeric units derived from at least one silicone-containing chemical). 
     The thermoplastic base member further includes a flange projecting away from the blister cavity. The flange provides a sealing ring region (e.g., a top surface or top planar surface) that circumscribes the blister cavity. 
     The flange also includes or provides a gripping portion configured to be held between a thumb and a finger of a contact lens wearer. The gripping portion can be considered a handle. 
     The flange preferably has a first proximal end. The first proximal end provides a gripping portion configured to be held between a thumb and a finger of a contact lens wearer. The flange also has a second distal end that extends away from the proximal end from the opposite side of the blister cavity. 
     The flange includes at least one connecting feature. The connecting feature can be located between an outer perimeter of the sealing ring region and the proximal end of the flange. The at least one connecting member is configured to mechanically fasten the thermoplastic base member to a second thermoplastic base member (e.g., a second identical or substantially identical thermoplastic base member of another contact lens blister package) to form a thermoplastic base member assembly. A “substantially identical thermoplastic base member” means that the one base member has the same design and shape features as the second base member taking into account manufacturing tolerances. If different base member designs have the same connecting feature, it may be possible to connect such base members together as an option. 
     The blister package, when new, includes a liquid contact lens packaging solution provided in the blister cavity. 
     The blister package, when new, also includes an unworn contact lens located in the contact lens packaging solution in the blister cavity. 
     The blister package, when new, further includes a sealing member hermetically sealed to the sealing ring region of the thermoplastic base member to maintain the contact lens in a sterile condition. 
     The sealing member can be a laminated foil material. The thickness of the sealing member can be from about 50 micrometers to about 100 micrometers or other thicknesses. Suitable materials for the sealing member can be obtained from AMCOR (Switzerland). 
     With respect to the weight of the thermoplastic base member of the present invention, the base member can have any weight. The weight of the base member can be, for instance from 0.40 g to 2.25 g or more. Optionally, the base member can be light weight where the weight is 0.72 g or less. The weight can be 0.40 g to 0.72 g, such as from 0.40 g to 0.70 g, from 0.40 g to 0.60 g, from 0.40 g to 0.50 g, from 0.45 g to 0.72 g, from 0.50 g to 0.70 g, from 0.55 g to 0.70 g, from 0.60 g to 0.70 g. The weight provided is the dry weight of only the empty thermoplastic base member—meaning not taking into account the sealing member, contact lens, or packaging solution. 
     The base member has an upper surface, an edge that circumscribes the base member, and a lower surface. The upper surface can be considered the top surface. The lower surface can be considered the bottom surface. 
     The gripping portion of the flange is located at a proximal end of the flange and the blister cavity is located closer to a distal end of the flange. The flange includes an upper surface and a lower surface. 
     The blister cavity of the thermoplastic base member has a concave interior surface and a convex exterior surface. The concave interior surface is present as part of the upper surface of the base member, and the convex exterior surface is present as part of the lower surface of the base member. 
     The blister cavity has a depth. The depth can be uniform or not uniform across the surface area of the blister cavity. The depth can be from 5.0 mm to 8.0 mm, such as from 6.0 mm to 7.1 mm, or from 6.5 mm to 7.0 mm. The depth, when measured, is the deepest area in the blister cavity. 
     The bister cavity or bowl is dimensioned such that the liquid contact lens packaging solution can be present in an amount from 0.4 mL to 1.6 mL (e.g., from 0.5 mL to 1.4 mL or from 0.6 mL to 1.0 mL, or about 0.6 mL or 0.6 mL, or about 0.7 mL or 0.7 mL, or about 0.8 mL or 0.8 mL, or amounts above or below any one of these ranges). 
     The thermoplastic base member has a length (e.g., an overall length) and a width (e.g., an overall width). The length can be from 40.0 mm to 50.0 mm, such as from 40.0 mm to 45.0 mm. The width can be from 25.0 mm to 35.0 mm, such as from 30.0 to 35.0 mm. The length is based on the largest measured length from the edge of the handle or gripping portion (e.g., the handle end) to the opposite edge that is adjacent to the blister cavity or bowl. The width (perpendicular to the length described herein) is based on the largest measured width from side to side of the base member, which generally the one side edge adjacent the blister cavity or bowl to the opposing side edge that is adjacent the blister cavity or bowl. 
     The thermoplastic base member has a thickness with respect to the thermoplastic material or polymer that forms the shape of the various features of the base member. The thickness can be uniform or substantially uniform (e.g., not varying by more than 5%) throughout the base member. In the alternative, the base member can have certain design features that have a thickness that is different from other design features of the base member. 
     For instance, the blister cavity or bowl can have a different thickness compared to the gripping portion of the base member and/or compared to the sealing ring region of the base member. 
     For example, the thickness of the thermoplastic that defines the blister cavity can be different from the thickness of the same thermoplastic material that defines the flange of the base member. 
     As a more specific example, the thermoplastic base member has a thickness, and the blister cavity is defined by a curved surface having a thickness of X mm, and the flange of the thermoplastic base member has a thickness that is no greater than X (e.g., no greater than 95% of X, or no greater than 90% of X, or no greater than 85% of X, or no greater than 80% of X, or the thickness is 80% to 95% of X). 
     The term ‘thickness’ can be considered an average thickness for the referenced area. For purposes of the present invention, unless stated otherwise, any dimension, weight, or other parameter can, as an option, be considered an average value. 
     The thermoplastic base member can be characterized by physical properties and/or mechanical properties and/or material properties (e.g., relating to polymer rigidness, strength, and/or other properties). 
     For instance, the thermoplastic base member, or a portion thereof, can have a flexural modulus of from 1600 MPa (232,000 psi) to 1900 MPa (275,500 psi), as measured using the ISO 178 testing method. The modulus can be from 1600 MPa to 1850 MPa or from 1600 MPa to 1800 MPa, or from 1600 MPa to 1750 MPa, or from 1600 MPa to 1700 MPa, or from 1650 MPa to 1900 MPa, or from 1700 MPa to 1900 MPa, or from 1750 MPa to 1900 MPa, or from 1800 MPa to 1900 MPa. Other amounts below or above any one of these ranges is also an option. The flexural modulus can be measured using conventional equipment, such as equipment provided by Instron (Norwood, Mass., USA) or the equipment can be specified by the plastics manufacturer as part of the plastics technical data. 
     For instance, the thermoplastic base member, or a portion thereof, can have a flange that has a stiffness from 50,000 psi·mm 2  to 150,000 psi·mm 2 , such as from 60,000 psi·mm 2  to 90,000 psi·mm 2 , or from 60,000 psi·mm 2  to 140,000 psi·mm 2 , or from 60,000 psi·mm 2  to 130,000 psi·mm 2 , or from 60,000 psi·mm 2  to 120,000 psi·mm 2 , or from 60,000 psi·mm 2  to 110,000 psi·mm 2 , or from 60,000 psi·mm 2  to 100,000 psi·mm 2 , or from 60,000 psi·mm 2  to 80,000 psi·mm 2 , or from 60,000 psi·mm 2  to 70,000 psi·mm 2 , or from 70,000 psi·mm 2  to 150,000 psi·mm 2 , or from 80,000 psi·mm 2  to 150,000 psi·mm 2 , or from 90,000 psi·mm 2  to 150,000 psi·mm 2 , or from 100,000 psi·mm 2  to 150,000 psi·mm 2 , or from 110,000 psi·mm 2  to 150,000 psi·mm 2 , or from 120,000 psi·mm 2  to 150,000 psi·mm 2 , or from 130,000 psi·mm 2  to 150,000 psi·mm 2 , or from 140,000 psi·mm 2  to 150,000 psi·mm 2 , or any amount above or below any one of these ranges. The stiffness is based on the modulus (as measured by ISO 178 testing method) of the base member plastic material (in psi) multiplied by the square (mm 2 ) of the thickness of the flange (the thickness can be an average thickness). 
     The sealing ring or sealing ring region or top planar surface can have a circular configuration or a non-circular configuration when viewed from a top plan view. Non-circular configurations can include rectangular, multi-sided, oval, oblong, or a combination of curved and straight edges that define the sealing ring region, or can have other geometric configurations. 
     The sealing ring can have a non-circular configuration that includes a vertex. 
     The sealing rim region can include or is a raised rim around the bowl (e.g., a continuous raised rim around the bowl). The raised rim can be any shape such as, but not limited, to, circular or can have curved and/or straight portions. The sealing rim region, alternatively, can be flat (or even) with the flat surface of the flange. As an option, the sealing rim region (for example), when the sealing rim region is raised, can include a vertex region as part of the shape. The vertex region can be located such that the point of the vertex (a sharp point or round point) points toward the handle. The shape of the raised rim, as an option, can be formed by the heat sealing die which can imprint this shape on the flange by melting that shape around the bowl. An example of the vertex and raised rim is shown, for instance, in  FIG.  23   .  FIG.  23    is an example and this vertex can be present in any of the base member designs described herein. 
     The sealing ring region can have a width from 1.0 mm to 4.0 mm. This width is the distance that is measured from the edge or rim of the top of the blister cavity outward to a side edge of the base member. The width can be an average width. The width can be uniform or can vary as the region circumscribes the blister cavity. The sealing ring region can as an option comprise of the entire planar area circumscribing the blister cavity on the sides that are facing or adjacent to the gripping portion or handle. 
     Desirably, the sealing ring region provides a sufficient seal between the thermoplastic base member and the sealing member to withstand separation forces that occur during a contact lens autoclave sterilization process, and also is relatively easy for a person to peel open using the person&#39;s fingers. 
     For example, in some embodiments of the present blister packs, the sealing ring region is configured to provide an average separation force (of the sealing member from the sealing ring region) of less than 15 Newtons (N). In some embodiments, the sealing ring region is configured to provide a separation force of from about 4 N to about 14 N. In further embodiments, the sealing ring region is configured to provide a separation force of from about 6 N to about 11 N. In yet further embodiments, the sealing ring region is configured to provide a separation force of from about 8 N to about 10 N. 
     The peel strength can be measured using an INSTRON Model 5943 machine. For purposes of these measurements, the angle of pull is set at 45 degrees. The load cell of the machine is calibrated prior to testing the peel strength. Generally, the operating instructions are set by the manufacturer. 
     The sealing ring configuration can be adjusted by controlling the temperature of a heat sealing head surface that is pressed against the sealing member on the top surface of the thermoplastic base member, controlling the pressure the sealing head is applied to the sealing member, or controlling the time the sealing head is applied to the sealing member, or combinations thereof. As an example, the sealing head can seal the sealing member to the thermoplastic base member at a temperature of from about 210 C to about 240 C, and/or the sealing head can be applied at a pressure of from about 25 psi to about 60 psi, and/or the sealing head can be held in contact with the sealing member for a time of from 100 ms to 1100 ms, for example, from about 200 ms to about 600 ms. 
     The rim or edge that defines the top perimeter of the blister cavity or bowl (in other words, the sealing ring region) can have a circular configuration or a non-circular configuration when viewed from a top plan view. Non-circular configurations can include square, rectangular, multi-sided, oval, oblong, or a combination of curved and straight edges that define the sealing ring region, or can have other geometric configurations. For instance, as shown in  FIG.  1 A , a portion of the blister cavity (i.e., a portion of the sealing ring region) that is at the edge of the opposite side of the handle end, can have essentially a side (or a portion) that is a straight edge with the remaining perimeter being curved. 
     A non-circular configuration can include a vertex or more than one vertex as part of the configuration. The vertex can be located in proximity to the gripping portion of the thermoplastic base member. As used herein, a vertex is understood to be a portion of a geometric shape having the sharpest turn relative to the rest of the shape. For example, the vertex can be a point where two or more line segments meet. However, if the line segments are curved it can be appreciated that the intersection may appear more blended in such a way that there is a region having a smaller radius than a portion of the line segments located away from the vertex. 
     The gripping portion or handle can be planar. The gripping portion can be substantially planar (e.g., not varying by more than 5% in flatness and/or the area comprising the gripping portion has mostly planar surfaces where at least 80% of the cross-sectional top surface is planar, or at least 85%, or at least 90% or at least 95% or at least 98% is planar. The remaining area can be non-planar (e.g., a recess, or receptable or other non-planar configuration). 
     The gripping portion, from the gripping portion end (or handle end) to about the edge of the rim of the blister cavity (closest to the handle end) can have a length that comprises or consists of from about 40% to about 55% of the overall length of the base member. The length, for instance, can be from 15 mm to 28 mm in length (e.g., 18 mm to 25 mm, or 20 mm to 23 mm). The width of the gripping portion at the gripping portion end can be from 12 mm to 20 mm (e.g., from 13 mm to 18 mm, from 14 mm to 16 mm). The width of the gripping portion can be non-uniform where the width gradually increases in the direction of the blister cavity (as for instance shown in  FIG.  1 A-B  and other figures). Thus, the width can be an average width or the width can be the width that is the narrowest portion. 
     The base member includes a connecting feature or a connecting member feature. The connecting feature can be an interlocking feature and/or a stackable feature. 
     As an option, the connecting member includes or is an interlocking feature that includes a hole, a clip, and/or a latch, or any combinations thereof. 
     As an option, the interlocking feature or connecting member can be in the form of a hole or slot(s) and a corresponding latch(es) (which can be referred to or considered a catch mechanism), where the latch of one base member connects with a slot of a second base member to form connected base members from this attachment of the latch into the slot. This attachment is preferably such that the connected members are not easily removed from each other. For purposes of the present invention, the latch is described as a clip or clip feature at times. 
     As an option, as part of the connecting member or interlocking feature, the flange can include at least one hole (e.g., one or two or three or more holes) extending entirely through the thickness of the flange. The flange can have only one hole. 
     The at least one hole can be located at a greater distance from the blister cavity than an outer perimeter of the flange. 
     The at least one hole can be located at a greater distance from the blister cavity than an outer perimeter of the sealing ring region. 
     The at least one hole can be located at the gripping portion of the base member or be located such that the at least one hole is closer to the handle end or gripping portion end than the blister cavity. 
     The at least one hole can have or include the shape of slot or be considered a slot. 
     The shape of the slot can be a rectangle or essentially have a rectangular shape (e.g., a rectangular shape with curved corners). 
     The slot can have a width and a length (with the length being the larger dimension). 
     The slot can have a length greater than its width. 
     The width can be, for example, from 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, such as from 0.7 mm to 1.3 mm or from 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm, or from 0.9 mm to 1.0 mm, or other amounts above or below any one of these ranges. The width can be an average width. 
     The length of the slot can be, for instance, from 3.0 mm to 13.0 mm, such as from 3.5 mm to 12 mm, from 4.0 mm to 12 mm, or from 5 mm to 12 mm, or from 6 mm to 12 mm, or from 7 mm to 12 mm, or from 8 mm to 12 mm, or from 9 mm to 12 mm, or from 8 mm to 11 mm, or from 9 mm to 11 mm, or 9 mm to 10 mm The length can be an average length. 
     The length and width of the slot can have a L/W ratio of from about 1.5 to 4 or from 2 to 4 or from 2.25 to 3.5. 
     The orientation of the length and the width of the slot as part of the flange with respect to the base member or the blister cavity can be of any orientation. 
     For instance, the length of the slot can be parallel or essentially parallel with the gripping portion end or handle end. In other words, the slot can be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base member that runs from the center edge of the gripping portion (proximal edge) to the opposite center edge on the side opposite of the blister cavity (distal edge). The longitudinal axis or line typically runs through the center of the blister cavity. 
     Alternatively, the length of the slot can be perpendicular or essentially perpendicular to the gripping portion end or handle end. In other words, the slot can be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the base member as described herein. 
     Alternatively, the length of the slot can be oriented such that the length is aligned anywhere from 5 degrees to 45 degrees from being parallel with the longitudinal axis of the base member as described herein. 
     As a further option, the hole or slot can include a notch in an edge of the hole. 
     As a more specific example, the notch can be included with the slot. The notch can be included in a slot that is rectangular. 
     The notch can be present along an edge of the slot (e.g., along a side of the length of the slot as opposed to the width of the slot). The notch can be off-centered from the center of the length. The center of the notch can be closer to the edge or side of the width than the center of the slot (based on length). The notch can be located anywhere between an edge or side of the width of the slot and the center of the slot. As an option, the notch can be at the center of the length. One notch can be present. As an option, more than one notch can be present. 
     The notch can have any geometric shape, such as, but not limited to, rectangular or square or oval or circular in shape. For instance, the notch can have a rectangular shape with curved corners. 
     The notch itself can have a width and length, with the length of the notch aligned on (or parallel to) the length of the slot. The width and length of the notch can be the same or different. The length of the notch can be from 10% to 35% of the length of the slot (e.g., from 15% to 30%, from 20% to 30% of the length of the slot) or lengths less than or more than any one of this amounts. 
     For instance, the length of the notch can be from 1 mm to 3.5 mm, or from 1.5 mm to 3.5 mm, or from 2 mm to 3 mm. The width of the notch can be same or about the same (within 10% or within 5%) of the width of the slot described herein. 
     The gripping portion end or handle end can have, as an option, a clip or a clip feature that defines the end/edge of the base member at the gripping portion end. The dimensions (length, width, and thickness) of this clip are configured so as to fit through the slot. The clip is complementary to the shape of the slot. In operation, the clip of one base member is capable of being inserted into the slot of a second base member so as to connect or interlock them together. 
     The clip can further include a bottom surface that is angled and defines a barb or protrusion that is configured to be inserted into a slot of a second thermoplastic base member of the same or similar design, from a first direction, and the slot of the second thermoplastic base member is configured to prevent the barb or protrusion from exiting in a second direction, opposite of the first direction. 
     The clip can include a key, which can be considered or include a barb or protrusion. The length, width, and thickness of the key is configured so as to fit through the notch that can be part of the slot (e.g., of a second base member) as described herein. The clip can include a tapered surface which can be part of the key or barb or protrusion. The key is complementary to the shape of the notch. In operation, the key, as an option and based on the key&#39;s location on the clip, can ensure that insertion of a first base member into a slot/notch of a second base member is oriented into certain manner. For instance, if desired, the notch/key feature can ensure that the top surface of each of the base members when connected together are facing all upward or all downward. See  FIG.  3    as one example. 
     As an option, the key can be off-centered from a center of a length of the clip in a position that mirrors the notch (i.e., the location of the notch). 
     As an option, the positions of the key and the notch are configured such that when the key is inserted into a notch of a second thermoplastic base member, the second thermoplastic base member is oriented in a specific manner relative to the thermoplastic base member. 
     As an option, the key can be at the center of the length of the clip. 
     As an option, the clip can be defined at a gripping portion end of the thermoplastic base member. 
     The clip or a portion of the clip (e.g., key) can be deformable or flexible. 
     The clip or a portion thereof can have a tapered surface and/or a beveled surface or any combinations thereof. 
     The length of the clip is the same or smaller than the length of the slot. Preferably, the length of the clip is from 1% to 20% smaller in length compared to the length of the slot (e.g., 1% to 3%, or 2% to 5%, or 5% to 10%, or 10% to 20% or 15% to 20% smaller in length). 
     The width of the clip is not dependent on the slot dimensions. The width of the clip dictates the distance that the clip is inserted into a second base member&#39;s slot. For instance, the width of the clip can be from 1 mm to 3 mm (e.g., from 1.5 mm to 3 mm, from 2 mm to 3 mm, or from 2.2 mm to 2.6 mm). Other widths below or above any one of these ranges can be utilized. 
     The thickness of the clip can be the same or less than the width of the slot. For instance, the thickness of the clip can be from 0% to 5% less than the width of the slot, such as 0.5% to 3% or from 1% to 5% less. 
     The key and its location along the clip match (or are complementary to) the notch and its location along the slot or is located in the reverse arrangement. Examples of this are shown in some of the figures. On one base member, the key can be located on the same longitudinal axis or line as the notch location or the key can be located such that the key is on a different longitudinal axis, so that a second base member must be turned, for instance, turned upside down, to be inserted and interlocked into a first base member of the same design. 
     While the dimensions of the clip are configured so as to fit through the slot, the top surface of the clip can be planar. The front side edge of the clip can be planar or a straight edge or can be curved or have angled or curved portions or section. The bottom surface (underneath) of the clip can be planar or can be angled or sloped such that the thickness of the edge of the clip is smaller than the thickness of the clip that is closer to the slot on the base member. As a further option, the bottom surface of the clip can end such that a barb or prong is formed so as to make removal of the clip from a slot more difficult. This can ensure that the connected base members remain connected, for purposes of recycling, for instance. 
     As an option, the clip can further include a first end having a tapered surface defining a first barb and a second end having a tapered surface defining a second barb, wherein the first barb and the second barb are configured to be inserted into a slot of a second thermoplastic base member from a first direction and the slot of the second thermoplastic base member is configured to prevent the first barb and the second barb from exiting in a second direction, opposite the first direction. 
     As an option, the thermoplastic base member can include a plurality of tabs. The plurality of tabs can depend from the top surface of the flange of the base member. 
     The plurality of tabs can be two side tabs. The side tabs can have a height of from 2.0 mm to 4.0 mm (e.g., from 2.0 mm to 3.5 mm or 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm or from 2.5 mm to 4.0 mm) and a length of from 6.0 mm to 10.0 mm (e.g., from 6.0 mm to 9.5 mm, from 6.0 mm to 9.0 mm, from 6.0 mm to 8.5 mm, from 6.0 mm to 8.0 mm, from 6.5 mm to 10.0 mm, from 7.0 mm to 10.0 mm). 
     As an option, one or more sidewalls (or two or more sidewalls), which can include or be considered two or more side tabs, can be present as part of the base member. 
     The sidewalls can be a plurality of side tabs that depend or extend from an upper surface of the flange of the base member. 
     The sidewalls or side tabs can be located on opposing side edges of a base member. The sidewalls extend downward from edges of the base member. The sidewalls or side tabs can be located on side edges of the base member that are adjacent to the bowl or blister cavity. The sidewalls or side tabs are generally located on edges of the base member that are not the same edge having the gripping portion. The sidewalls can have any shape (e.g., trapezoidal, rectangular, one or more curved sides). The bottom edge or surface of the sidewalls can be flat or planar. The height of the sidewalls can be the same or less than the greatest depth of the bowl or blister cavity. The sidewalls can add rigidity or strength to a part of or to the entire base member. In addition, or alternatively, the sidewalls may facilitate retaining of the base member in a base member carrier of a heat sealing system or machine. It can be understood that slots may be provided in the base member carrier to receive one or more sidewalls to provide a physical fit between the base member and the base member carrier to ensure that the upper surface of the base member remains stable and parallel to a surface of a heat sealing die that is pressed against the sealing member on top of the upper surface of the base member to seal the sealing member to the base member. 
     The side walls or side tabs can be two side walls or side tabs. The side walls can have a height from 2.0 mm to 4.0 mm, such as from 2.5 mm to 3.0 mm. The side walls can have a length from 6.0 mm to 10.0 mm, such as from 7.0 mm to 9.0 mm, such as about 8.0 mm, or 8 mm. The height and/or length can be above or below any one of these ranges. 
     The length of each of the side walls can be from 25% to 100% (e.g., 50% to 90%, 60% to 90%, 70% to 90%) of the diameter (or largest diameter or dimension that defines the cross-sectional area) of the blister cavity or bowl. 
     The base members of the present invention can include a ridge line that circumscribes a portion (e.g., 25% to 95%, 50% to 90%, 60% to 80% of the entire perimeter length) or the entire perimeter of the base member edge. The ridge line can be present around the entire perimeter but exclude, as an option, the gripping portion edge (or handle end) that includes the clip. 
     The ridge line has a height and width (or thickness). The width or thickness of the ridge line can be the same thickness of the flange projecting away from the blister cavity. The thickness can be from 0.1 mm to 1 mm or from 0.2 mm to 0.9 mm or from 0.3 mm to 0.8 mm or from 0.4 mm to 0.7 mm or amounts below or above any one of these ranges. 
     The height of the ridge line can be the same or greater than the thickness of the ridge line such as from 10% to 50% greater than the thickness of the ridge line. 
     When side walls or side tabs are present along with a ridge line, the side walls or side tabs can be continuous or part of the ridge line.  FIG.  11 B , for instance, shows this option with side tab  1168  being part of or continuous with ridge line  1134 . 
     The base member can include a plurality of stabilizing legs. The stabilizing legs extend from a lower surface (or bottom surface) of the flange of the thermoplastic base member and circumscribe the convex exterior surface of the bowl or blister cavity. The stabilizing legs are immediately adjacent to the circumference of the blister cavity or bowl at the bottom surface of the base member. 
     As an option, the plurality of stabilizing legs can comprise or include three stabilizing legs. The stabilizing legs can be positioned from each other in an equidistance manner. For instance, the stabilizing legs can be positioned approximately 120 degrees (±10 degrees) apart from each other about a vertical axis extending through the center of the blister cavity, for instance, as shown in  FIG.  5 B . Alternatively, the stabilizing legs can be positioned in a non-equidistance manner where at least two of a plurality of legs are closer to each other than to another leg(s). For instance, as shown in  FIG.  1 B , three stabilizing legs are shown and two of the three legs are positioned closer to each other and a third stabilizing leg is positioned further away. Put another way, the area circumscribing the blister cavity is a regular or irregular oval or circle, and thus define a 360-degree area. The center of one leg can be located at 0 degrees and the center of a second leg can be located from 150-170 degrees away from the first leg, and a center of the third leg can be located from 190-210 degrees away from the first leg. The first leg can be located at any point of the area circumscribing the convex exterior surface of the bister cavity. In one example, the first leg can be located near or at the convex exterior surface of the blister cavity that is at the side opposite of the gripping portion edge. 
     The stabilizing legs can include a planar lower edge. The stabilizing legs are designed to either rest on a surface, such as a countertop or a second base member (as shown, for instance in  FIG.  9   ). In addition, or alternatively, the stabilizing legs may facilitate handling of the individual base members during placement in a base member carrier of a heat sealing machine. For example, the stabilizing legs may help orient the blister to ensure the bottom of the base member is down when dispensed from an automated feeder toward the base member carrier. In addition, the base member carrier may be configured with openings to receive the stabilizing legs to help retain the base member during the sealing operation, somewhat similar to the sidewalls discussed herein. 
     The shape of the stabilizing legs can be of any geometrical shape. As shown in some of the figures, the legs can have or include curved side surfaces and the overall shape can have inclined surfaces. The shape of each leg can be the same or different from each other. Some of the legs can have the same design and other leg(s) can have a different design. As shown, for instance in  FIG.  1 B , the first leg can have a shape different from the second and third legs. 
     The length of the legs is generally the same length. The length can be the same or more than the depth (largest depth) of the blister cavity. The length can be same or from 1% to 20% more than the largest depth of the blister cavity. The length can be more than 20% than the largest depth of the blister cavity. 
     As indicated, the connecting feature of the base members of the present invention can be one of an interlocking feature or mechanism (e.g., a push through clip, a lever action clip, or a hook-on clip), or a stackable feature or mechanism (e.g., a push-in interference fit, such as with an extruded pin that can include a flat section or pin to control or direct orientation of a connection to another base member have a receiving slot or receptable, or with a recess (such as the recess of the blister cavity) that can include flat/straight surfaces to control or direct orientation of a connection to another base member). More than one type of connecting feature can be present on the base member as an option. 
     With respect to the push through clip design, the base members interlock together mechanically, by pushing (or inserting) the clip of one base member into the hole or slot of a second base member. The features of the clip and the slot are as described earlier and exemplified in the figures and description accompanying the figures herein. The clip can be located on the end of the thumb-grip or handle or gripping portion and the slot is located away from the end of the thumb-grip or handle or gripping portion and can be located on the gripping portion. 
     The slot can be slightly thinner in at least one dimension or two or more dimensions or all dimensions (e.g., 1% to 5% thinner) than at least one dimension or two or more dimensions of the clip so that once the clip goes through (with some interference), the base member is mechanically fastened or clipped together with the other base member. 
     For purposes of the present invention, the mechanical fastening using any one of the connecting member features described herein as part of the base member to another base member with the same connecting member features provides an interference fit or friction fit. 
     The push through clip design can include a key feature as an option. The key feature as described herein determines a single position for the base member to be able to be inserted in the slot of a second base member. This feature enables a desired or uniform stacking or interconnection of base members.  FIGS.  2  and  3    provide an example of such a push through clip base member. 
     With respect to the lever-action clip design, in this design, the base members interlock by sliding the clip of one base member into the slot of the second base member, with the base members perpendicular to each other, and then rotating one of the base members down (e.g., the top base member down), like a lever.  FIGS.  8  and  9    provide an example of such a lever-action clip base member. 
     The slot can be slightly thinner in at least one dimension or two or more dimensions or all dimensions (e.g., 1% to 5% thinner) than at least one dimension or two or more dimensions of the clip so that once the clip goes through (with some interference), the base member stay clipped together with the other base member. 
     The lever-action clip design can include a key feature as an option. The key feature as described herein determines a single position for the base member to be able to be inserted in the slop of the other base member. This feature enables a desired or uniform stacking or interconnection of base members. 
     With respect to the hook-on clip design, the base members interlock by sliding one side of the hook of one base member into the slot of a second base member, and then pushing the opposite side through.  FIGS.  11 - 13    provide an example of such a hook-on clip design. 
     The slot can be slightly thinner in at least one dimension or two or more dimensions or all dimensions (e.g., 1% to 5% thinner) than at least one dimension or two or more dimensions of the clip so that once the clip goes through (with some interference), the base member stay clipped together with the other base member. 
     As an option, the stackable feature can include a receptacle formed at a top surface of the flange. The receptacle can be located on the gripping portion, in between a gripping portion end and the blister cavity. 
     As an option, the stackable feature further includes a post extending downward from the bottom surface, wherein the post is configured to friction fit or interference fit within a receptacle of a second thermoplastic base member. The post and the receptacle can have a common central axis. 
     As an option, the stackable feature can include at least one female ridge defined on an inner sidewall of the bowl, and at least one male ridge defined on an outer sidewall of the bowl. The at least one male ridge can be configured to friction fit or interference fit within at least one female ridge of a second thermoplastic base member. 
     The stackable feature can include a plurality of clips extending downward from an outer perimeter of the flange, and a plurality of notches defined at the outer perimeter in between the plurality of clips. Each of the plurality of clips can be configured to mechanically fasten to a respective notch of a plurality of notches of a second thermoplastic base member. 
     The plurality of clips can each include a tapered end defining a barb configured to interlock with a respective notch of a second thermoplastic base member. 
     With respect to the stackable feature, one example is the push-in interference fit design for the base member using a pin design. In this design, one base member interlocks with another base member by pushing an extruded pin (male part) of the one base member that is on the bottom surface of the one base member into the top of a complimentary hole or receptable or recess (female part) located on the top surface of the second base member.  FIGS.  14 - 16    provide an example of such a pin push-in interference fit design. 
     The push-in interference design is similar to how self-locking bricks stay together like LEGO pieces. The interference fit between the male and female parts holds the base members together. 
     The pin and/or the receiving recess can include flat and/or straight sides as part of the shape and this can provide control of the stacking orientation of the base members on top of each other. Thus, as an option, the pin can have a shape so that the orientation of the base member is oriented in a certain manner (e.g., predetermined by a flat section of the pin) in order to create a desired stacking structure. 
     With respect to the stackable feature, another example is the push-in interference fit design for the base member using a bowl design. In this design, one base member interlocks with another base member by pushing the exterior bowl (the convex portion—male portion) of one base member that is the bottom surface of the one base member into the interior bowl (the concave portion—female portion) of a complimentary second base member with complementary bowl design to interlock the base members together.  FIGS.  17 - 19    provide an example of such a bowl push-in interference fit design. 
     The push-in interference design is similar to how self-locking bricks stay together like LEGO pieces. The interference fit between the male and female parts holds the base members together. 
     As an option, for any of the base members, the base members can have a bowl design that includes geometric shapes as part of the bowl convex and concave design (e.g., rectangular, oval, trapezoidal, triangular portions). The bowl can include flat and/or straight sides as part of the bowl concave and convex shape and this can provide control of the stacking orientation. 
     Due to the geometrical shapes, the base members can be stacked in different orientations. For instance, any of four different orientations can be achieved, when the concave and convex sides of the bowl have square features or rectangular features. The bowl can be designed so that the circumference or rim of the bowl is multi-sided (e.g., 3 or more sides or 4 or more sides or 5 or more sides). This same design would be present on convex or exterior (bottom) surface of the bowl so as to provide the complimentary interference fit. 
     As a further option, the base members can have a push-in quad clip design. In this design, the base members are stacked together by pushing the lower part of the bowl of one base member into the top opening of the second base member. Each of the base members have a plurality of leg clips (e.g., quad clips) on the edge or circumference of the bowl and that are capable of clipping or connecting to the edge of a complementary base member. The leg clips can deflect due to some interference while pushing the bowl in and then snap into place, holding the base members together.  FIGS.  20 - 22    provide an example of such a push-in quad clip design. 
     With this push-in quad clip design, multiple base members can be stacked in staggered order, determined by the geometry of the base member body and positioning of the clips. 
     The base member on the outer edge that circumscribes the bowl can have a plurality of notches or indentations (e.g., 2 or more, 3 or more, 4 or more, 5 or more, 6 or more). The notches or indentations can be spaced uniformly or non-uniformly apart from each other. The number of notches or indentations can be equal to the number of leg clips on the base member. The notches or indentations can be located between the leg clips. The leg clips can include a catch mechanism or barb at the end of the leg clips so that this end can be snap fitted into a receiving (second) base member and connected together. 
     As indicated, the interlocking feature or connecting member feature as described herein can be, as an option, in the form of a slot(s) and a corresponding latch(es) (which can be referred to or considered a catch mechanism or a clip or a clip feature), where the latch of one base member connects with a slot of a second base member to form connected base members from this attachment of the latch into the slot. This attachment is preferably such that the connected members are not easily removed from each other. 
     As one option, the latch of one base member that fits into the slot of another base member can be dimensioned so that the connection forms an interlocking fit or friction fit or pressure fit or snug fit between the latch and slot. The width of the distal end of the latch that first enters the slot when connecting can have a width and thickness such that the latch can be put through the slot with either no force or a slight force and thus the one base member is securely attached to the second or adjacent base member and so on, and the connected base members cannot be removed easily (e.g., the base members will not disconnect from each other due to gravity or due to gripping of the connected base members attached to each other). As an example, the slight force can be characterized as at least an amount of force that a person can connect the base member onto the adjacent base member, but that the base members cannot be disconnected or be removed from each other without a greater amount of force than used to attach the base members together. This can be applicable to any of the connecting features in general for the present application. 
     As an example, the latch has a thickness that is less than the width of the slot (e.g., from 0.1% to 10% less, or from 0.5% to 5% less, or from 1% to 15% less or from 1% to 10% less or from 1% to 5% less in thickness compared to the width of the slot). For example, the latch can have a thickness that is from 0.05 mm to 0.4 mm less than the width of the slot. As one example, the latch can have a thickness from 0.01 mm to 0.3 mm less than the width of the slot. In a further example, the latch can have a thickness that is 0.2 mm less than the width of the slot. 
     Still further, as shown in some of the accompanying drawings, the latch may include a barb extending from a surface of the latch. The length of the barb (the distance from which the edge of the barb extends from the latch surface) can be from 0.1 mm to 0.8 mm or other amounts above this range. In a preferred embodiment, the length of the barb and the latch together (as illustrated by  1144 ,  1150 , and  1160  in  FIG.  11 A  or, for example) is greater than the width of the slot into which the latch is inserted (e.g., from 1% to 15% or more greater or from 1% to 10% greater or from 1% to 5% greater in length compared to the width of the slot). For example, the combined length or distance of the barb and latch can be from 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm greater than the width of the slot. As a further example, the length or distance of the barb and latch can be from 0.15 mm to 0.45 mm greater than the width of the slot. In an additional example, the length or the distance of the barb and the latch is about 0.2 mm greater than the width of the slot. It will be understood that the term “length” of the barb is in the context of the present disclosure, and it can also be understood that this length defines the thickness of the barb or the thickness of the latch and the barb. The thickness should be selected so that the barb can engage an under surface of the base member through the slot. 
     As an option, when two or more base members are connected together, for instance, utilizing one of the stackable feature designs, at least a portion of the exterior bowl surface of one base member nests in the interior bowl surface of the connecting base member. This portion can be at least 5% or from 5% to 99% of the available exterior surface area and/or interior surface area of the bowl, such as from 25% to 99% or from 50% to 99%, or from 60% to 99%, or from 70% to 99%, or from 80% to 99%, or from 50% to 95%, or from 50% to 90%, or from 50% to 80%, or amounts below or above any one of these ranges. 
     The plurality of contact lens package base members that can be connected together can include two or more, three or more, four or more, five or more, ten or more, twenty or more, thirty or more, sixty or more, or 90 or more. There is no limit to the number of contact lens package base members that can be connected together. 
     With respect to each of the contact lens packages, each of the packages can independently include or comprise a base member (e.g., plastic base member) comprising at least one interlocking or connecting feature or member. The interlocking or connecting feature can comprise at least one latch, or at least one slot, or a combination of a latch and a slot, or any combinations thereof. Each base member can comprise a bowl that defines a cavity that is configured to retain a contact lens and contact lens packaging solution. A planar top surface, for example, a flange region, can extend outwardly from a top rim of the bowl and cavity. A sealing member or sealing lid can be provided and can comprise a removable foil or lid attached to the planar top surface or flange region to provide a sealed contact lens package, for example, a blister package. 
     Each of the used base members can connect with one or more others to form the recyclable item. If the sealing members are plastic, then the sealing members can optionally be recycled along with the plastic base members. 
     With respect to the thermoplastic base member, the base member can comprise, consist essentially of, or include or is a recyclable plastic material. 
     With respect to the thermoplastic base member, the base member can comprise, consist essentially of, or include or is a polypropylene material. 
     Each base member can comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of a thermoplastic material or recyclable plastic or recyclable plastic material. Each base member can comprise plastic, polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene, polystyrene, a polyalkylene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a combination thereof, or the like. The base member can be made of a material that is recyclable, meaning that the material is of a type that can be taken to a recycle facility or trash facility and put in a recycle bin, such as a plastics recycling bin. The base member can be made of conventional material used for contact lens base members. The base member can be formed from or comprise a polypropylene resin. 
     The base member can have or include a substantially planar top surface (or flange region) that intersects with an upper rim of the bowl and surrounds the cavity. The planar top surface can intersect with an edge, for example, at a vertical edge. The planar top surface can at least partially define a handle. 
     The substantially planar surface provides a sealing surface for the sealing member. With the sealing member on the planar surface, a sealed cavity is formed. The term “substantially planar” means a planar surface or a surface surrounding the cavity that is at least 80% in surface area, or at least 90% in surface area, or at least 95% in surface area, or at least 99%, or 100% in surface area planar or flat, or a surface area that is very gently concave or convex. By very gently concave or convex what is meant is that the difference in height, when resting on a horizontal surface, between the highest point and the lowest point on the substantially planar top surface, can be no more than about 0.5 centimeter (cm), no more than 0.25 cm, no more than 0.1 cm, or no more than 0.05 cm, or other amounts within or outside of any one or more of these ranges. The base member may also include a raised rim surrounding the cavity of the base member and extending upwardly from the planar top surface. In such embodiments, the raised rim will also have an upper rim surface that is planar, and parallel to the planar top surface of the base member. 
     The sealing member can be sealed to the base member to create a seal that can withstand autoclaving conditions used to sterilize the unworn contact lenses. Once the seal is broken by separating the sealing member from the base member, the contact lens package is referred to herein as opened. 
     With respect to the at least one latch, the at least one slot, or both, of each of the base members, as indicated, the latch of one base member is configured to fit inside and mechanically engage (e.g., interlock or connect), with at least one slot of another base member, thus connecting the two base members together. The latches and slots of the base members can be configured, shaped, or designed to connect with other slots and latches and to connect a plurality of contact lens package base members together after the respective contact lenses are removed from the respective cavities. 
     As an option, each of the base members can include at least a first slot and at least a first latch. The first slot is formed through the planar top surface, can be spaced away from the upper rim, and can be located on a first side of the bowl. The first latch extends downwardly from the planar top surface and can be adjacent to the first slot. The first latch can be spaced away from the upper rim. 
     As an option, each of the latches can independently include a distal end, and each distal end can have a tapered side, a tapered edge, a tapered corner, or a combination thereof. For example, each latch can each include a barb or notch or catch shape design to lock or connect with the slot. The slots can be sized to receive the barbs from a first direction, and catch the barbs, preventing the barbs from exiting the slots in a second direction (e.g., opposite the first direction). The barbs can be malleable, deformable, elastically deformable, tapered, beveled, a combination thereof, or the like. 
     The slots can have any shape including, but not limited to, circular, rectangular, trapezoid and the shape can be further defined by curved or rounded surfaces as opposed to straight lines and right angles. The slots can each form an open area such that this area is less than 1% of the total surface area of the planar surface of the base member (such as 0.5% or less, 0.25% or less, 0.1% or less or 0.05% or less). 
     The at least one latch and the at least one slot of each of the plurality of contact lens packages can together comprise a poka-yoke design. In such a design, the handle of the first contact lens package can only be capable of extending in a direction that is different than a direction of extension of the handle of an immediately adjacent contact lens package, after the contact lens packages are used or opened and upon stacking together. 
     Depending on the design of the interlocking feature (as exemplified herein), different stack arrangements can be made by stacking the used base members together. The respective handles can extend in different directions, for example, in two opposite directions, in two different directions, in three different directions, in four different directions, in five different directions, in six different directions, in seven different directions, in eight different directions, in two angled directions, in three angled positions, in four angled positions, or in any number of angles relative to the other handles of the other stacked base members. The different directions or angular positions can be evenly spaced apart, not evenly spaced apart, randomly spaced apart, spaced apart in a spiral, or the like, all with respect to an axis travelling through the centers of the bowls of the used base members. When in angled directions, the difference in angle for respective handles for two base members connected together can be, for instance, from 10 degrees to 180 degrees, such as 10 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees, 40 degrees, 50 degrees, 60 degrees, 70 degrees, 80 degrees, 90 degrees, 100 degrees, 110 degrees, 120 degrees, 130 degrees, 140 degrees, 150 degrees, 160 degrees, or 170 degrees, or 180 degrees or other degrees above or below any one of these ranges. 
     As an option, the base members are attachable to one another such that the plurality of empty base members are oriented in either a singled stacked configuration or in an alternating, stacked configuration. The cavities of the empty base members can optionally nest within one another other when the empty base members are attached above and/or below one another. The nesting can result in either the base member cavities contacting each other or not contacting each other. The bowls of the empty base members can optionally be spaced apart from the bowls of one or more immediately adjacent base members. 
     As an option, for instance, when the connecting feature is an interlocking feature, the latch can be located at the end of the gripping portion or handle (i.e., the handle end) and can be considered part of the gripping portion and handle, and the first slot can be located between the bowl and the handle end. 
     Alternatively, the latches and slots can be located in other locations around a periphery of the bowl, on the handle, or at any other location, such that the latches and slots can connect a plurality of empty base members together. The first slot can be located at any location of the planar surface between the rim of the bowl and the end of the planar surface. 
     As mentioned, the base members can further include a plurality of sidewalls, such as a first vertical sidewall and a second vertical sidewall. The first vertical sidewall can extend downwardly from the edge of the base member, can have a first depth, and can be located along the edge that adjacent the bowl. The second vertical sidewall can be located on an opposite side of the bowl relative to the first vertical sidewall. While the vertical sidewall or vertical sidewalls extend downwardly from the edge, the vertical sidewalls may have a slope ranging from seventy degrees to ninety degrees or other slope amounts (where the degrees are with respect to the planar surface) from the surface extending from the planar top surface. Thus, it can be understood that the vertical sidewalls may have an approximately vertical orientation relative to the planar top surface extending from the edge. The bowl can have a depth that is of a greater dimension than the first depth of the first vertical sidewall, and the bowl can have a depth that is of a greater dimension than the second vertical sidewall depth. 
     The first and second vertical sidewalls can be located such that they are not adjacent to any slot. Referring again to the 360 degrees that define the rim of the bowl, the vertical sidewalls can be located such that they are 180 degrees away from each other or within 10 degrees of this distance. 
     The vertical sidewall can have any shape or geometry, such as a rectangle, trapezoid, half circle, and the like, and any shape can have rounded edges or sides. As an option, the depth of the vertical sidewall can be such that when two base members are connected together, the vertical sidewalls can provide or contribute to the connected base members being connected to form a level surface or about a level surface (within 10 degrees or within 5 degrees of being leveled) based on the planar surface of each base member. 
     The blister package can have a thermoplastic base member that has a weight that is from 0.40 g to 2.25 g or higher. As an option, the thermoplastic base member can be lightweight. For instance, the thermoplastic base member can comprise or include a thermoplastic base member having a weight from 0.40 g to 0.72 g. 
     The weight of the thermoplastic base member is based on the dry weight of the thermoplastic base member by itself (i.e., weight based on no liquid and no solution present and does not include any sealing member). 
     Several commercially available blister pack plastic base members were dried and weighed, as presented in Table 1 below: 
                                     TABLE 1                       Average   Standard           Manufacturer   Product   Weight (g)   Deviation   Range (g)                  JJVC   OASYS   0.75   0.013   0.732-0.766       JJVC   OASYS 1-DAY   1.23   0.003   1.231-1.238       JJVC   ACUVUE 2   0.74   0.005   0.732-0.743       JJVC   TRUEYE   1.23   0.010   1.226-1.247       Alcon   AIROPTIX   1.02   0.007   1.014-1.030       Alcon   PRECISION 1   1.04   0.011   1.021-1.052       Alcon   TOTAL 1   1.07   0.011   1.051-1.081       Alcon   DAILIES   1.04   0.008   1.031-1.053           AQUA           COMFORT           PLUS       Alcon   TOTAL30   1.05   0.008   1.045-1.063       B&amp;L   ULTRA   0.87   0.016   0.859-0.896       B&amp;L   BIOTRUE 1-   1.59   0.007   1.581-1.599           DAY       B&amp;L   PUREVISION2   2.74   0.005   2.730-2.741       B&amp;L   INFUSE   0.84   0.011   0.829-0.854       CooperVision   MYDAY   1.11   0.012   1.088-1.122       CooperVision   BIOFINITY   2.05   0.020   2.035-2.085       CooperVision   AVAIRA   1.07   0.005   1.064-1.077           VATALITY       CooperVision   CLARITI 1   0.96   0.006   0.950-0.965           DAY       CooperVision   PROCLEAR 6   2.07   0.005   2.066-2.080           PACK       CooperVision   PROCLEAR 1   0.99   0.021   0.960-1.016           DAY       CooperVision   BIOMEDICS   2.08   0.011   2.071-2.093           55 6 PACK       CooperVision   MISIGHT   0.97   0.019   0.954-0.992                    
For each commercial product, five blister pack base members were weighed using a conventional scale, and the average weight in grams is provided in Table 1 (the weights have been rounded to two significant digits). The range for the base member weights is provided in the right column. The Acuvue 2 and Oasys contact lens blister packs had the lightest weight base member of 0.732 grams. Examples of blister packs are shown in the following patent or patent application publications: EP1092645 A1, U.S. Pat. No. 7,213,382, EP1092645 A1, U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,213,382, 5,609,246, 5,609,246, 5,609,246, 5,609,246, U.S. Ser. No. 10/390,593, U.S. Pat. No. 7,426,993, U.S. Ser. No. 10/390,593, U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,426,993, 7,477,366, 6,398,018, and 7,477,366. Blister pack base members in these patents are visually similar to the actual weighed blister packs of the commercial products identified in Table 1.
 
     The present invention can include a kit that comprises a carton, box, container, or other packaging, also referred to as a carton. The carton can be made from virgin or recycled cardboard, lid stock, compressed paper, paperboard, or the like. A kit in accordance with the present invention can comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of, a carton, and a plurality of sealed contact lens packages (e.g., blister packs) containing sterilized, unworn contact lenses. Each of the plurality of sealed contact lens packages includes one or more of the connecting features or members described herein. In a further embodiment, such a kit comprises ten or more contact lens packages (e.g., blister packs), thirty or more contact lens packages, sixty or more contact lens packages, or ninety or more contact lens packages. The carton can be a box, a bag, a package, a tray, an enclosure, or any other type of container. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B , the contact lens package base member  100  includes a planar top surface  104 . Planar top surface  104  has a sealing ring surface and an edge  108 . Base member  100  further includes a handle  112  or gripping portion at least partially defined by planar top surface  104 . A bottom surface  116  opposes planar top surface  104 . A bowl  120  or recess is provided recessed from planar top surface  104  and has an upper rim  124  that intersects with planar top surface  104  and defines a blister cavity  128 . Blister cavity  128  is configured for holding a contact lens, for example, contact lens  408  shown in  FIG.  4   . Bowl  120  defines a dome  122  protruding from bottom surface  116  that intersects with bottom surface  116  at dome edge  126 . Bowl  120  has a concave interior surface and dome  122  has a convex exterior surface. Handle  112  extends away from bowl  120  and terminates at a handle end  132  or gripping portion end. 
     Planar top surface  104  is a top surface of a flange projecting away from blister cavity  128 . Bottom surface  116  is a bottom surface of the flange. The flange provides the sealing ring region that circumscribes blister cavity  128 . The flange can also provide handle  112  or gripping portion configured to be held between a thumb and a finger of a contact lens wearer. Handle  112  can be located at a proximal end of the flange, and blister cavity  128  can be located closer to a distal end of the flange. 
     Base member  100  further includes a slot  136  or hole or opening formed through planar top surface  104  at handle  112 . Slot  136  is located in between handle end  132  and upper rim  124 . Slot  136  can be located at a greater distance from blister cavity  128  than edge  108  or outer perimeter of top surface  104 . Slot  136  has an elongated shape with a length orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of base member  100 . 
     The width of slot  136  can be from 0.2 mm to about 2 mm, 0.3 mm to 1.9 mm, 0.4 mm to 1.8 mm, 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, 0.7 mm to 1.3 mm, 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm, 0.9 mm to 1.1 mm, or 1 mm. For example, the length of slot  136  is no more than 2 mm, no more than 1.9 mm, no more than 1.8 mm, no more than 1.5 mm, no more than 1.3 mm, no more than 1.2 mm, no more than 1.1 mm, or no more than 1 mm. The width of slot  136  can be no less than 0.2 mm, no less than 0.3 mm, no less than 0.4 mm, no less than 0.5 mm, no less than 0.6 mm, no less than 0.7 mm, no less than 0.8 mm, no less than 0.9 mm, or no less than 1 mm. The length of slot  136  can be from 3.0 mm to 13.0 mm, 3.5 mm to 12 mm, from 4.0 mm to 12 mm, from 5 mm to 12 mm, from 6 mm to 12 mm, from 7 mm to 12 mm, from 8 mm to 12 mm, from 5 mm to 12 mm, from 6 mm to 12 mm, from 7 mm to 12 mm, from 8 mm to 12 mm, from 9 mm to 12 mm, from 8 mm to 11 mm, from 9 mm to 11 mm, from 9 mm to 10 mm. 
     A notch  138  is defined at an edge of slot  136 . Notch  138  extends in a direction towards handle end  132  and is offset from a center of slot  136 . In certain embodiments, notch  138  can extend in an opposing direction towards bowl  120 . More than one notch  138  can be defined at the edge of slot  136   
     The sealing ring surface of planar top surface  104  can have a circular configuration or a non-circular configuration when viewed from a top plan view. 
     The sealing ring region of planar top surface  104  can have a width from 0.5 mm to 6.0 mm, 0.8 mm to 5.0 mm, 1.0 mm to 4.0 mm, 1.5 mm to 3.0 mm, or 2.0 mm. For example, sealing ring region can have a width of no more than 6.0 mm, no more than 5.0 mm, no more than 4.0 mm, no more than 3.0 mm, or no more than 2.0 mm. Sealing ring region can have a width of no less than 0.5 mm, no less than 0.8 mm, no less than 1.0 mm, no less than 1.5 mm, or no less than 2 mm. As discussed herein the width of the sealing ring can be set by varying the temperature of a sealing head, the force applied by the sealing head to the sealing member, or the time of contact between the sealing head and the sealing member on the base member, or combinations thereof. The sealing ring shape, including its perimetric shape and width, are selected to provide a peel separation force less than 15 N. For example, the peel separation force may be from about 6 N to about 13 N. 
     A sealing member  404 , such as a foil seal as shown in  FIG.  4   , can be sealed, adhered, or coupled to top planar surface  104  at the sealing ring surface to seal blister cavity  128 . Sealing member  404  can be hermetically sealed to the sealing ring surface. An unworn contact lens  408  can be provided, sealed in blister cavity  128 , along with contact lens solution  412 , as shown in  FIG.  4   . Contact lens  408  can be a hydrogel contact lens, a silicone hydrogel contact lens, or the like. Sealing member  404  and contact lens solution  412  maintains unworn contact lens  408  in a sterile condition. 
     Blister cavity  128  contains a volume of contact lens solution  412 . For example, blister cavity  128  contains from 0.1 mL to 2 mL, 0.2 mL to 1.8 mL, 0.3 mL to 1.7 mL, 0.4 mL to 1.6 mL, 0.5 mL to 1.5 mL, 0.6 mL to 1.4 mL, 0.7 mL to 1.3 mL, 0.8 mL to 1.2 mL, 0.9 mL to 1.1 mL, or 1 mL of contact lens solution  412 . For example, cavity  128  contains no more than 2 mL, no more than 1.9 mL, no more than 1.8 mL, no more than 1.7 mL, no more than 1.6 mL, no more than 1.5 mL, no more than 1.4 mL, no more than 1.3 mL, no more than 1.2 mL, no more than 1.1 mL, or no more than 1.0 mL of contact lens solution  412 . Cavity  128  can contain no less than 0.1 mL, no less than 0.2 mL, no less than 0.3 mL, no less than 0.4 mL, no less than 0.5 mL, no less than 0.6 mL, no less than 0.7 mL, no less than 0.8 mL, no less than 0.9 mL, or no less than 1.0 mL of contact lens solution  412 . 
     Base member  100  further includes a clip  144  at the proximal end of the flange. Clip  144  extends from handle end  132  and has a length and width to fit within a slot of another base member. Clip  144  can include a key  160  or protrusion and a catch mechanism. The catch mechanism is a tapered surface in the shape of a barb that is provided on and extends downward from bottom surface  116 . Key  160  or protrusion extends downward from the tapered surface. Key  160  is also off center relative to clip  144  in an opposing direction as compared to notch  138 . The catch mechanism and key  160  are sized and positioned to fit through a slot and a notch of another base member, respectively. Slot  136  is sized to receive catch mechanism from a first direction, and catch the barb, preventing it from exiting slot  136  in a second direction opposite the first direction. Clip  144  can be malleable, deformable, elastically deformable, tapered, beveled, a combination thereof, or the like. 
     Contact lens package base member  100  can include a first vertical sidewall  168  and a second vertical sidewall  172 . First vertical sidewall  168  and second vertical sidewall  172  are side tabs that provide strength to base member  100 , prevent base member  100  from tipping over, and/or to prevent over-deformation of bowl  120 . First vertical sidewall  168  and second vertical sidewall  172  can add stability to base members that are connected together. First vertical sidewall  168  can extend downwardly from edge  108 . Second vertical sidewall  172  can extend downwardly from edge  108  and can be located on an opposite side of bowl  120 , relative to first vertical sidewall  168 . Bowl  120  can have a depth that is the same or greater in dimension than a height of first vertical sidewall  168  and second vertical sidewall  172 . 
     First vertical sidewall  168  and second vertical sidewall  172  or side tabs can have a height from 1.5 mm to 4.5 mm, 2.0 mm to 4.0 mm, or 2.5 mm to 3.0 mm. For example, side tabs have a height of no more than 4.5 mm, no more than 4.0 mm, or no more than 3.0 mm. Side tabs can have a height of no less than 1.5 mm, no less than 2.0 mm, or no less than 2.5 mm. 
     First vertical sidewall  168  and second vertical sidewall  172  or side tabs can have a length from 5.0 mm to 11.0 mm, 6.0 mm to 10.0 mm, 7.0 mm to 9.0 mm, or 8.0 mm. For example, side tabs have a length of no more than 11.0 mm, no more than 10.0 mm, no more than 9.0 mm, or no more than 8.0 mm. Side tabs can have a length of no less than 5.0 mm, no less than 6.0 mm, no less than 7.0 mm, or no less than 8.0 mm. 
     Base member  100  can include a ridge line  134  extending downwardly from a substantial portion of edge  108  or the entire edge  108 . Ridge line  134  can provide additional strength to base member  100 . 
     Base member  100  can include stabilizing legs. The stabilizing legs can extend from bottom surface  116  of base member  100  and circumscribe the convex exterior surface. Base member  100  includes a first stabilizing leg  176 , a second stabilizing leg  180 , and a third stabilizing leg  184 . First stabilizing leg  176 , second stabilizing leg  180 , and third stabilizing leg  184  extend downward from bottom surface  116  where dome  122  intersects with bottom surface  116  at dome edge  126 . First stabilizing leg  176  is at the front side of dome  122 . Second stabilizing leg  180  and third stabilizing leg  184  are at the rear side of dome  122  closer to handle  112 . For example, first stabilizing leg  176 , second stabilizing leg  180 , and third stabilizing leg  184  can be 120 degrees apart from one another relative to a vertical axis extending through the center of dome  122 . First stabilizing leg  176 , second stabilizing leg  180 , and third stabilizing leg  184  each have a leg height that is same or greater than the depth of dome  122  and can have a planar lower edge. When base members are stacked together, planar lower edges of first stabilizing leg  176 , second stabilizing leg  180 , and third stabilizing leg  184  contact a surface (e.g., top planar surface) of another base member. The stabilizing legs provide additional stability to stacked base members. 
       FIG.  23    shows the same features as  FIG.  1 A  and includes a vertex region as part of the sealing rim. In  FIG.  23   , the raised sealing rim  3100  includes a vertex shape/portion  3200 . The remaining features shown in  FIG.  23    are same as in  FIG.  1 A . 
     Also provided is a combination of two or more contact lens package base members, as shown in  FIGS.  2 A,  2 B, and  3   . The combination can be understood to be a stack or an assembly of contact lens package base members and can be a recyclable assembly  450 . Contact lens package base members  100 ,  200 ,  300 , and  400  can be the same as described above. For example, a second base member  200  can also have: a planar top surface  204  having an edge and at least partially defining a handle  212  or gripping portion; a bottom surface; a bowl  220  or recess that is recessed from planar top surface  204 , has an upper rim that intersects with planar top surface  204 , and defines a cavity configured for holding a contact lens, handle  212  extending away from bowl  220  and terminating at a handle end; a slot or hole or opening formed through the planar top surface, located in between the handle end and the upper rim, and having an elongated shape with a length orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of base member  200 ; a notch extending in a direction towards the handle end and offset from a center of the slot; a clip  244  extending from the handle end, clip  244  having a key  260 ; a first vertical sidewall and a second vertical sidewall  272 ; and a first stabilizing leg  276 , a second stabilizing leg  280 , and a third stabilizing leg. 
     Clip  244  of second contact lens package base member  200  can be configured to fit into the slot  136  of base member  100  (also referred to as first base member  100 ). As shown in  FIGS.  2 A and  2 B , slot  136  received the catch mechanism of clip  244  from a first direction. The barb of the catch mechanism prevents clip  244  from exiting slot  136  in a second direction opposite the first direction, thus retaining second base member  200  to first base member  100 . 
     As mentioned above, slot  136  of base member  100  has notch  138  that extends in a direction towards the handle end and is offset from the center of slot  136 . Additionally, clip  144  includes key  160  that is offset from a center of clip  144  in an opposite direction as compared to notch  138 . This creates a poka-yoke design for clip  144  and slot  135  connections. Key  160  guides clip  144  into the slot of another base member via the notch. Due to the offset key  160  and notch  138 , base members can only connect together in a uniform configuration. As shown in  FIG.  3   , second base member  200  is connected to first base member  100 , a third base member  300  is connected to second base member  200 , a fourth base member  400  is connected to third base member  300  and so on, in a stacked and uniform configuration. Accordingly, the plurality of base members connected together are compact to define recyclable assembly  450 . 
       FIGS.  5 A- 23    show different embodiments of the present invention. Each of these embodiments can have the same or similar dimensions, and/or characteristics, and/or materials as described in detail above or herein, with regard to  FIGS.  1 A- 4   . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  5 A and  5 B , a contact lens package base member  500  includes a planar top surface  504 . Planar top surface  504  has a sealing ring surface and an edge  508 . Base member  500  further includes a handle  512  or gripping portion at least partially defined by planar top surface  504 . A bottom surface  516  opposes planar top surface  504 . A bowl  520  or recess is provided recessed from planar top surface  504  and has an upper rim  524  that intersects with planar top surface  504  and defines a blister cavity. Blister cavity is configured for holding a contact lens. Bowl  520  defines a dome  522  protruding from bottom surface  516  that intersects with bottom surface  516  at a dome edge  526 . Bowl  520  has a concave interior surface and dome  522  has a convex exterior surface. Handle  512  extends away from bowl  520  and terminates at a handle end  532  or gripping portion end. 
     Planar top surface  504  is a top surface of a flange projecting away from the blister cavity. Bottom surface  516  is a bottom surface of the flange. The flange provides the sealing ring region that circumscribes blister cavity. The flange can also provide handle  512  or gripping portion configured to be held between a thumb and a finger of a contact lens wearer. Handle  512  can be located at a proximal end of the flange, and blister cavity can be located closer to a distal end of the flange. 
     Base member  500  further includes a slot  536  or hole or opening formed through planar top surface  504  at handle  512 . Slot  536  is located in between handle end  532  and upper rim  524 . Slot  536  can be located at a greater distance from the blister cavity than edge  508  or outer perimeter of top surface  504 . Slot  536  has an elongated shape with a length orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of base member  500 . 
     The sealing ring surface of planar top surface  504  can have a circular configuration or a non-circular configuration when viewed from a top plan view. 
     A notch  538  is defined at an edge of slot  536 . Notch  538  extends in a direction towards bowl  520  and is offset from a center of slot  536 . In certain embodiments, notch  538  can extend in an opposing direction towards handle end  532 . More than one notch  538  can be defined at the edge of slot  536   
     Base member  500  further includes a clip  544  at the proximal end of the flange. Clip  544  extends from handle end  532  and has a length and width to fit within a slot of another base member. Clip  544  can include a key  560  or protrusion and a catch mechanism. The catch mechanism is a tapered surface in the shape of a barb that is provided on and extends downward from bottom surface  516 . Key  560  or protrusion extends downward from the tapered surface. Key  560  is also off center relative to clip  544  in an opposing direction as compared to notch  538 . The catch mechanism and key  160  are sized and positioned to fit through a slot and a notch of another base member, respectively. Slot  536  is sized to receive the catch mechanism from a first direction, and catch the barb, preventing it from exiting slot  536  in a second direction opposite the first direction. Clip  544  can be malleable, deformable, elastically deformable, tapered, beveled, a combination thereof, or the like. 
     A first opening  550  and a second opening  552  are formed through handle  512  in between slot  536  and handle end  532 . First and second openings  550 ,  552  can be used to further grip handle  512  and can reduce the weight of base member  500 . 
     Contact lens package base member  500  can include a first vertical sidewall  568  and a second vertical sidewall  572 . First vertical sidewall  568  and second vertical sidewall  572  are side tabs that provide strength to base member  500 , prevent base member  500  from tipping over, and/or prevent over-deformation of bowl  520 . First vertical sidewall  568  and second vertical sidewall  572  can add stability to base members that are connected together. First vertical sidewall  568  can extend downwardly from edge  508 . Second vertical sidewall  572  can extend downwardly from edge  508  and can be located on an opposite side of bowl  520 , relative to first vertical sidewall  568 . Bowl  520  can have a depth that is the same or of greater dimension than a height of first vertical sidewall  568  and second vertical sidewall  572 . 
     Base member  500  can include a ridge line  534  extending downwardly from a substantial portion of edge  508  or the entire edge  508 . Ridge line  534  can provide additional strength to base member  500 . 
     Base member  500  can include stabilizing legs. The stabilizing legs can extend from bottom surface  516  of base member  500  and circumscribe the convex exterior surface. Base member  500  includes a first stabilizing leg  576 , a second stabilizing leg  580 , and a third stabilizing leg  584 . First stabilizing leg  576 , second stabilizing leg  580 , and third stabilizing leg  584  extend downward from bottom surface  516  where dome  522  intersects with bottom surface  516  at dome edge  526 . First stabilizing leg  576  is at the front side of dome  522 . Second stabilizing leg  580  and third stabilizing leg  584  are at the rear side of dome  522  closer to handle  512 . For example, first stabilizing leg  576 , second stabilizing leg  580 , and third stabilizing leg  584  can be 120 degrees apart from one another relative to a vertical axis extending through the center of dome  522 . First stabilizing leg  576 , second stabilizing leg  580 , and third stabilizing leg  584  each have a leg height that is the same or greater than the depth of dome  522  and can have a planar lower edge. When base members are stacked together, planar lower edges of first stabilizing leg  576 , second stabilizing leg  580 , and third stabilizing leg  584  contact a surface (e.g., top planar surface) of another base member. The stabilizing legs provide additional stability to stacked base members. 
     Multiple base members  500  can attach to one another via clip  544  and slot  536  in a similar manner as shown in  FIG.  3   , except in a flipped orientation due to the direction in which notch  538  is extending. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  6 A and  6 B , a contact lens package base member  600  includes a planar top surface  604 . Planar top surface  604  has a sealing ring surface and an edge  608 . Base member  600  further includes a handle  612  or gripping portion at least partially defined by planar top surface  604 . A bottom surface  616  opposes planar top surface  604 . A bowl  620  or recess is provided recessed from planar top surface  604  and has an upper rim  624  that intersects with planar top surface  604  and defines a blister cavity. Blister cavity is configured for holding a contact lens. Handle  612  extends away from bowl  620  and terminates at a handle end  632  or gripping portion end. 
     Planar top surface  604  is a top surface of a flange projecting away from the blister cavity. Bottom surface  616  is a bottom surface of the flange. The flange provides the sealing ring region that circumscribes blister cavity. The flange can also provide handle  612  or gripping portion configured to be held between a thumb and a finger of a contact lens wearer. Handle  612  can be located at a proximal end of the flange, and blister cavity can be located closer to a distal end of the flange. 
     Base member  600  further includes a slot  636  or hole or opening formed through planar top surface  604  at handle  612 . Slot  636  is located in between handle end  632  and upper rim  624 . Slot  636  can be located at a greater distance from the blister cavity than edge  608  or outer perimeter of top surface  604 . Slot  636  has an elongated shape with a length orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of base member  600 . 
     A notch  638  is defined at an edge of slot  636 . Notch  638  extends in a direction towards handle end  632  and is formed at a center of slot  636 . In certain embodiments, notch  638  can extend in an opposing direction towards bowl  620 . More than one notch  638  can be defined at the edge of slot  636 . 
     The sealing ring surface of planar top surface  604  can have a circular configuration or a non-circular configuration when viewed from a top plan view. 
     Base member  600  further includes a clip  644  at the proximal end of the flange. Clip  644  extends from handle end  632  and has a length and width to fit within a slot of another base member. Clip  644  can include a key  660  or protrusion and a catch mechanism. The catch mechanism is a tapered surface in the shape of a barb that is provided on and extends downward from bottom surface  616 . Key  660  or protrusion extends downward from the tapered surface. Key  660  is also centered relative to clip  644 . The catch mechanism and key  660  are sized and positioned to fit through a slot and a notch of another base member, respectively. Slot  636  is sized to receive catch mechanism from a first direction, and catch the barb, preventing it from exiting slot  636  in a second direction opposite the first direction. Clip  644  can be malleable, deformable, elastically deformable, tapered, beveled, a combination thereof, or the like. 
     Multiple base members  600  can attach to one another via clip  644  and slot  636  in a similar manner as shown in  FIG.  3    or can attach to one another in a non-uniform configuration. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  7 A and  7 B , the contact lens package base member  700  includes a planar top surface  704 . Planar top surface  704  has a sealing ring surface and an edge  708 . Base member  700  further includes a handle  712  or gripping portion at least partially defined by planar top surface  704 . A bottom surface  716  opposes planar top surface  704 . A bowl  720  or recess is provided recessed from planar top surface  704  and has an upper rim  724  that intersects with planar top surface  704  and defines a blister cavity. Blister cavity is configured for holding a contact lens. Bowl  720  defines a dome  722  protruding from bottom surface  716  that intersects with bottom surface  716  at dome edge  726 . Bowl  720  has a concave interior surface and dome  722  has a convex exterior surface. Handle  712  extends away from bowl  720  and terminates at a handle end  732  or gripping portion end. 
     Planar top surface  704  is a top surface of a flange projecting away from blister cavity. Bottom surface  716  is a bottom surface of the flange. The flange provides the sealing ring region that circumscribes the blister cavity. The flange can also provide handle  712  or gripping portion configured to be held between a thumb and a finger of a contact lens wearer. Handle  712  can be located at a proximal end of the flange, and the blister cavity can be located closer to a distal end of the flange. 
     A first opening  750  and a second opening  752  are formed through handle  712  in between handle end  732  and blister cavity. First and second openings  750 ,  752  can be used to further grip handle  712  and can reduce the weight of base member  700 . 
     The sealing ring surface of planar top surface  704  can have a circular configuration or a non-circular configuration when viewed from a top plan view. 
     Base member  700  further includes a slot  736  or hole or opening formed through planar top surface  704  at handle  712 . Slot  736  is located in between first and second openings  750 ,  752 . Slot  736  can be located at a greater distance from the blister cavity than edge  708  or outer perimeter of top surface  704 . Slot  736  has an elongated shape with a length parallel to a longitudinal axis of base member  700 . As shown in  FIGS.  7 A and  7 B , length of slot  736  runs along the longitudinal axis of base member  700 . 
     A notch  738  is defined at an edge of slot  736 . Notch  738  extends in a direction towards second opening  752  and the side of base member  700 . Notch  738  is offset from a center of slot  736 . In certain embodiments, notch  738  can extend in an opposing direction towards first opening  750 . More than one notch  738  can be defined at the edge of slot  736   
     Base member  700  further includes a clip  744  at the proximal end of the flange. Clip  744  includes a first portion  744   a  that extends downward from handle end  732  and a second portion  744   b  that is adjoined to a distal end of first portion  744   a  and extends rearward from handle end  732 . Clip  744  has a length and width to fit within a slot of another base member. Clip  744  can include a key  760  or protrusion. Key  760  or protrusion extends rearward from first portion  744   a , upward from second portion  744   b , or both. Key  760  is also off center relative to clip  744 . The key  760  is sized and positioned to fit through the notch of another base member. Clip  744  can be malleable, deformable, elastically deformable, tapered, beveled, a combination thereof, or the like. 
     Contact lens package base member  700  can include a first vertical sidewall  768  and a second vertical sidewall  772 . First vertical sidewall  768  and second vertical sidewall  772  are side tabs that provide strength to base member  700 , prevent base member  700  from tipping over, and/or to prevent over-deformation of bowl  720 . First vertical sidewall  768  and second vertical sidewall  772  can add stability to base members that are connected together. First vertical sidewall  768  can extend downwardly from edge  708 . Second vertical sidewall  772  can extend downwardly from edge  708  and can be located on an opposite side of bowl  720 , relative to first vertical sidewall  768 . Bowl  720  can have a depth that is the same or of greater dimension than a height of first vertical sidewall  768  and second vertical sidewall  772 . 
     Base member  700  can include a ridge line  734  extending downwardly from a substantial portion of edge  708  or the entire edge  708 . Ridge line  734  can provide additional strength to base member  700 . 
     Base member  700  can include stabilizing legs. The stabilizing legs can extend from bottom surface  716  of base member  700  and circumscribe the convex exterior surface. Base member  700  includes a first stabilizing leg  776 , a second stabilizing leg  780 , and a third stabilizing leg  784 . First stabilizing leg  776 , second stabilizing leg  780 , and third stabilizing leg  784  extend downward from bottom surface  716  where dome  722  intersects with bottom surface  716 . First stabilizing leg  776  is at the front side of dome  722 . Second stabilizing leg  780  and third stabilizing leg  784  are at the rear side of dome  722  closer to handle  712 . For example, first stabilizing leg  776 , second stabilizing leg  780 , and third stabilizing leg  784  can be 120 degrees apart from one another relative to a vertical axis extending through the center of dome  722 . First stabilizing leg  776 , second stabilizing leg  780 , and third stabilizing leg  784  each have a leg height that is the same or greater than the depth of dome  722  and can have a planar lower edge. When base members are stacked together, planar lower edges of first stabilizing leg  776 , second stabilizing leg  780 , and third stabilizing leg  784  contact a surface (e.g., top planar surface) of another base member. The stabilizing legs provide additional stability to stacked base members. 
     Also provided is a combination of two or more contact lens package base members, as shown in  FIGS.  8 A,  8 B, and  9   . The combination can be understood to be a stack or an assembly of contact lens package base members and can be a recyclable assembly  950 . Contact lens package base members  700  and  800  can be the same as described above. For example, a second base member  800  can also have: a planar top surface  804  having an edge and at least partially defining a handle  812  or gripping portion; a bottom surface  816 ; a bowl  820  or recess that is recessed from planar top surface  804 , has an upper rim that intersects with planar top surface  804 , and defines a cavity configured for holding a contact lens, handle  812  extending away from bowl  220  and terminating at a handle end; a slot  836  or hole or opening formed through the planar top surface, having an elongated shape with a length parallel to a longitudinal axis of base member  800 ; a notch extending in a direction towards a side of base member  800  and offset from a center of slot  836 ; a clip  844  extending from the handle end, clip  844  having a first portion  844   a , a second portion  844   b , and a key  860 ; a first vertical sidewall and a second vertical sidewall  872 ; and a first stabilizing leg  876 , a second stabilizing leg  880 , and a third stabilizing leg  884 . 
     Clip  844  of second contact lens package base member  800  can be configured to fit into the slot  736  of base member  700  (also referred to as first base member  700 ). As shown in  FIG.  8 A , second base member  800  is orthogonal relative to first base member  700 . Second portion  844   b  and key  860  are first inserted into slot  736  and notch  738 , respectively. As shown in  FIG.  8 B , second base member  800  pivots such that first portion  844   a  is inserted into slot  836 , and first base member  700  and second base member  800  are parallel. In this configuration, first base member  700  and second base member  800  are locked together. 
     As mentioned above, slot  736  of base member  700  has notch  738  that is offset from the center of slot  736 . Additionally, clip  744  includes key  760  that is offset from a center of clip  744 . This creates a poka-yoke design for clip  744  and slot  735  connections. Key  760  guides clip  744  into the slot of another base member via the notch. Due to the offset key  760  and notch  738 , base members can only connect together in a uniform configuration. As shown in  FIG.  9   , second base member  800  is connected to first base member  700 , a third base member is connected to second base member  800 , a fourth base member is connected to third base member and so on, in a stacked and uniform configuration. Accordingly, the plurality of base members connected together provide a recyclable assembly  950 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  10 A and  10 B , a contact lens package base member  1000  includes a planar top surface  1004 . Planar top surface  1004  has a sealing ring surface and an edge  1008 . Base member  1000  further includes a handle  1012  or gripping portion at least partially defined by planar top surface  1004 . A bottom surface  1016  opposes planar top surface  1004 . A bowl  1020  or recess is provided recessed from planar top surface  1004  and has an upper rim  1024  that intersects with planar top surface  1004  and defines a blister cavity. Blister cavity is configured for holding a contact lens. Handle  1012  extends away from bowl  1020  and terminates at a handle end  1032  or gripping portion end. 
     Planar top surface  1004  is a top surface of a flange projecting away from the blister cavity. Bottom surface  1016  is a bottom surface of the flange. The flange provides the sealing ring region that circumscribes blister cavity. The flange can also provide handle  1012  or gripping portion configured to be held between a thumb and a finger of a contact lens wearer. Handle  1012  can be located at a proximal end of the flange, and blister cavity can be located closer to a distal end of the flange. 
     Base member  1000  further includes a slot  1036  or hole or opening formed through planar top surface  1004  at handle  1012 . Slot  1036  is located in between handle end  1032  and upper rim  1024 . Slot  1036  can be located at a greater distance from the blister cavity than edge  1008  or outer perimeter of top surface  1004 . Slot  1036  has an elongated shape with a length orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of base member  1000 . Slot  1036  is absent of a notch. 
     The sealing ring surface of planar top surface  1004  can have a circular configuration or a non-circular configuration when viewed from a top plan view. 
     Base member  1000  further includes a clip  1044  at the proximal end of the flange. Clip  1044  extends from handle end  1032  and has a length and width to fit within a slot of another base member. Clip  1044  is absent of a key. Clip  1044  includes a catch mechanism that is a tapered surface in the shape of a barb. The catch mechanism is provided on and extends downward from bottom surface  1016 . The catch mechanism is sized and positioned to fit through a slot of another base member. Slot  1036  is sized to receive the catch mechanism from a first direction, and catch the barb, preventing it from exiting slot  1036  in a second direction opposite the first direction. Clip  1044  can be malleable, deformable, elastically deformable, tapered, beveled, a combination thereof, or the like. 
     Multiple base members  1000  can attach to one another via clip  1044  and slot  1036  in a similar manner as shown in  FIG.  3    or can attach to one another in a non-uniform configuration. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  11 A- 13   , a contact lens package base member  1100  includes a planar top surface  1104 . Planar top surface  1104  has a sealing ring surface and an edge  1108 . Base member  1100  further includes a handle  1112  or gripping portion at least partially defined by planar top surface  1104 . A bottom surface  1116  opposes planar top surface  1104 . A bowl  1120  or recess is provided recessed from planar top surface  1104  and has an upper rim  1124  that intersects with planar top surface  1104  and defines a blister cavity. Blister cavity is configured for holding a contact lens. Bowl  1120  defines a dome  1122  protruding from bottom surface  1116  that intersects with bottom surface  1116  at a dome edge  1126 . Bowl  1120  has a concave interior surface and dome  1122  has a convex exterior surface. Handle  1112  extends away from bowl  1120  and terminates at a handle end  1132  or gripping portion end. 
     Planar top surface  1104  is a top surface of a flange projecting away from the blister cavity. Bottom surface  1116  is a bottom surface of the flange. The flange provides the sealing ring region that circumscribes blister cavity. The flange can also provide handle  1112  or gripping portion configured to be held between a thumb and a finger of a contact lens wearer. Handle  1112  can be located at a proximal end of the flange, and blister cavity can be located closer to a distal end of the flange. 
     The sealing ring surface of planar top surface  1104  can have a circular configuration or a non-circular configuration when viewed from a top plan view. 
     Base member  1100  further includes a slot  1136  or hole or opening formed through planar top surface  1104  at handle  1112 . Slot  1136  is located in between handle end  1132  and upper rim  1124 . Slot  1136  can be located at a greater distance from the blister cavity than edge  1108  or outer perimeter of top surface  1104 . Slot  1136  has an elongated shape with a length orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of base member  1100 . Slot  1136  is absent a notch. 
     Base member  1100  further includes a clip  1144  at the proximal end of the flange. Clip  1144  extends from handle end  1132  and has a length and width to fit within a slot of another base member. Clip  1144  can include ends that have tapered edges. The ends having tapered edges define a first barb  1150  extending laterally from a first side and a second barb  1160  extending laterally from a second side opposite the first side. Slot  1136  is sized to receive clip  1144  from a first direction, and catch first barb  1150  and second barb  1160 , preventing clip  1144  from exiting slot  1136  in a second direction opposite the first direction. Clip  1144  can be malleable, deformable, elastically deformable, tapered, beveled, a combination thereof, or the like. 
     Contact lens package base member  1100  can include a first vertical sidewall  1168  and a second vertical sidewall  1172 . First vertical sidewall  1168  and second vertical sidewall  1172  are side tabs that provide strength to base member  1100 , prevent base member  1100  from tipping over, and/or to prevent over-deformation of bowl  1120 . First vertical sidewall  1168  and second vertical sidewall  1172  can add stability to base members that are connected together. First vertical sidewall  1168  can extend downwardly from edge  1108 . Second vertical sidewall  1172  can extend downwardly from edge  1108  and can be located on an opposite side of bowl  1120 , relative to first vertical sidewall  1168 . Bowl  1120  can have a depth that is the same or of greater dimension than a height of first vertical sidewall  1168  and second vertical sidewall  1172 . 
     Base member  1100  can include a ridge line  1134  extending downwardly from a substantial portion of edge  1108  or the entire edge  1108 . Ridge line  1134  can provide additional strength to base member  1100 . 
     Base member  1100  can include stabilizing legs. The stabilizing legs can extend from bottom surface  1116  of base member  1100  and circumscribe the convex exterior surface. Base member  1100  includes a first stabilizing leg  1176 , a second stabilizing leg  1180 , and a third stabilizing leg  1184 . First stabilizing leg  1176 , second stabilizing leg  1180 , and third stabilizing leg  1184  extend downward from bottom surface  1116  where dome  1122  intersects with bottom surface  1116  at dome edge  1126 . First stabilizing leg  1176  is at the front side of dome  1122 . Second stabilizing leg  1180  and third stabilizing leg  1184  are at the rear side of dome  1122  closer to handle  1112 . For example, first stabilizing leg  1176 , second stabilizing leg  1180 , and third stabilizing leg  1184  can be 120 degrees apart from one another relative to a vertical axis extending through the center of dome  1122 . First stabilizing leg  1176 , second stabilizing leg  1180 , and third stabilizing leg  1184  each have a height that is the same or greater than the depth of dome  1122  and can have a planar lower edge. When base members are stacked together, planar lower edges of first stabilizing leg  1176 , second stabilizing leg  1180 , and third stabilizing leg  1184  contact a surface (e.g., top planar surface) of another base member. The stabilizing legs provide additional stability to stacked base members. 
     Also provided is a combination of two or more contact lens package base members, as shown in  FIGS.  12  and  13   .  FIG.  12    is a partial and cut-away view of two base members, one of which has a clip inserted to the slot of the other base member. A cut-away view shows the interaction and position of the slot and clip when one base member is orthogonal to the other base member during insertion of the clip into the slot. The combination can be understood to be a stack or an assembly of contact lens package base members and can be a recyclable assembly  1350 . Contact lens package base members  1100 ,  1200  can be the same as described above. For example, a second base member  1200  can also have: a planar top surface  1204  having an edge and at least partially defining a handle  1212  or gripping portion; a bottom surface  1216 ; a bowl  1220  or recess that is recessed from planar top surface  1204 , has an upper rim that intersects with planar top surface  1204 , and defines a cavity configured for holding a contact lens, handle  1212  extending away from bowl  1220  and terminating at a handle end; a slot  1236  or hole or opening formed through the planar top surface, located in between the handle end and the upper rim, and having an elongated shape with a length orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of base member  1200 ; a clip  1244  extending from the handle end, clip  1244  having a first barb  1250  extending laterally from a first side and a second barb  1260  extending laterally from a second side opposite the first side; a first vertical sidewall and a second vertical sidewall  1272 ; and a first stabilizing leg, a second stabilizing leg, and a third stabilizing leg  1284 . 
     Clip  1244  of second contact lens package base member  1200  can be configured to fit into the slot  1136  of base member  1100  (also referred to as first base member  1100 ). As shown in  FIG.  12   , slot  1136  received clip  1244  from a first direction. First barb  1250  and second barb  1260  prevents clip  1244  from exiting slot  1136  in a second direction opposite the first direction, thus retaining second base member  1200  to first base member  1100 . As shown in  FIG.  13   , second base member  1200  is connected to first base member  1100 , a third base member is connected to second base member  1200 , a fourth base member is connected to third base member and so on, in a stacked and uniform configuration. Accordingly, the plurality of base members connected together to obtain a recyclable assembly  1350 . Alternatively, base members  1110 ,  1200  can be stacked in a non-uniform configuration. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  14 A- 16   , a contact lens package base member  1400  includes a planar top surface  1404 . Planar top surface  1404  has a sealing ring surface and an edge  1408 . Base member  1400  further includes a handle  1412  or gripping portion at least partially defined by planar top surface  1404 . A bottom surface  1416  opposes planar top surface  1404 . A bowl  1420  or recess is provided recessed from planar top surface  1404  and has an upper rim  1424  that intersects with planar top surface  1404  and defines a blister cavity. Blister cavity is configured for holding a contact lens. Bowl  1420  defines a dome  1422  protruding from bottom surface  1416  that intersects with bottom surface  1416  at a dome edge  1426 . Bowl  1420  has a concave interior surface and dome  1422  has a convex exterior surface. Handle  1412  extends away from bowl  1420  and terminates at a handle end  1432  or gripping portion end. 
     Planar top surface  1404  is a top surface of a flange projecting away from the blister cavity. Bottom surface  1416  is a bottom surface of the flange. The flange provides the sealing ring region that circumscribes blister cavity. The flange can also provide handle  1412  or gripping portion configured to be held between a thumb and a finger of a contact lens wearer. Handle  1412  can be located at a proximal end of the flange, and blister cavity can be located closer to a distal end of the flange. 
     The sealing ring surface of planar top surface  1404  can have a circular configuration or a non-circular configuration when viewed from a top plan view. 
     Base member  1400  further includes a receptacle  1436  or hole or opening formed at planar top surface  1404  at handle  1412 . Receptacle  1436  is located in between handle end  1432  and upper rim  1424 . Receptacle  1436  can be located at a greater distance from the blister cavity than edge  1408  or outer perimeter of top surface  1404 . Receptacle  1436  can include an inner sidewall having a flat portion and a curved portion. 
     Base member  1400  further includes a post  1444  or pin extending downward from bottom surface  1416 . Post  1444  is located in between handle end  1432  and dome edge  1426 . Post  1444  can include an outer sidewall having a flat portion and a curved portion. Receptacle  1436  is sized to receive post  1444  by aligning the flat portion of the outer sidewall of post  1444  with the flat portion of the inner sidewall of receptacle  1436  and aligning the curved portion of the outer sidewall of post  1444  with the curved portion of the inner sidewall of receptacle  1436 . Post  1444  and receptacle  1436  have snap fit or pressure fit or a friction fit (or interference fit) and thus retain two base members together. The connection of two base members using the receptacle and post design is similar to how LEGO pieces are snapped together. The connection can be releasable. In the case of connecting base members together, the snap fit can have more interference or friction than LEGO pieces which intentionally makes the release of two base members difficult, as one optional design. 
     Contact lens package base member  1400  can include a first vertical sidewall  1468  and a second vertical sidewall  1472 . First vertical sidewall  1468  and second vertical sidewall  1472  are side tabs that provide strength to base member  1400 , prevent base member  1400  from tipping over, and/or to prevent over-deformation of bowl  1420 . First vertical sidewall  1468  and second vertical sidewall  1472  can add stability to base members that are connected together. First vertical sidewall  1468  can extend downwardly from edge  1408 . Second vertical sidewall  1472  can extend downwardly from edge  1408  and can be located on an opposite side of bowl  1420 , relative to first vertical sidewall  1468 . Bowl  1420  can have a depth that is the same or of greater dimension than a height of first vertical sidewall  1468  and second vertical sidewall  1472 . 
     Base member  1400  can include a ridge line  1434  extending downwardly from a substantial portion of edge  1408  or the entire edge  1408 . Ridge line  1434  can provide additional strength to base member  1400 . 
     Base member  1400  can include stabilizing legs. The stabilizing legs can extend from bottom surface  1416  of base member  1400  and circumscribe the convex exterior surface. Base member  1400  includes a first stabilizing leg  1476 , a second stabilizing leg  1480 , and a third stabilizing leg  1484 . First stabilizing leg  1476  extends downward from edge  1408 , and second stabilizing leg  1480  and third stabilizing leg  1484  extend downward from bottom surface  1416  where dome  1422  intersects with bottom surface  1416  at dome edge  1426 . First stabilizing leg  1476  is at the front side of base member  1400 . Second stabilizing leg  1480  and third stabilizing leg  1484  are at the rear side of dome  1422  closer to handle  1412 . For example, first stabilizing leg  1476 , second stabilizing leg  1480 , and third stabilizing leg  1484  can be 120 degrees apart from one another relative to a vertical axis extending through the center of dome  1422 . First stabilizing leg  1476 , second stabilizing leg  1480 , and third stabilizing leg  1484  each have a leg height that is the same as or greater than the depth of dome  1422  and can have a planar lower edge. When base members are stacked together, planar lower edges of first stabilizing leg  1476 , second stabilizing leg  1480 , and third stabilizing leg  1484  contact a surface (e.g., top planar surface) of another base member. The stabilizing legs provide additional stability to stacked base members. 
     Also provided is a combination of two or more contact lens package base members, as shown in  FIGS.  15  and  16   .  FIG.  15    is a cut-away and partial view of two base members connected together. The combination can be understood to be a stack or an assembly of contact lens package base members and can be a recyclable assembly  1650 . Contact lens package base members  1400 ,  1500  can be the same as described above. For example, a second base member  1500  can also have: a planar top surface  1504  having an edge and at least partially defining a handle  1512  or gripping portion; a bottom surface; a bowl  1520  or recess that is recessed from planar top surface  1504 , has an upper rim that intersects with planar top surface  1504 , and defines a cavity configured for holding a contact lens, handle  1512  extending away from bowl  1520  and terminating at a handle end; a receptacle  1536  formed at the planar top surface  1504 , located in between the handle end and the upper rim; a post  1544  extending downward from the bottom surface; a first vertical sidewall  1568  and a second vertical sidewall; and a first stabilizing leg, a second stabilizing leg  1580 , and a third stabilizing. 
     Post  1544  of second contact lens package base member  1500  can be configured to friction fit into the receptacle  1436  of base member  1400  (also referred to as first base member  1400 ). As shown in  FIG.  15   , receptacle  1436  received post  1544  and snuggly fits within receptacle  1436 . As shown in  FIG.  16   , second base member  1500  is connected to first base member  1400 , a third base member is connected to first base member  1500 , a fourth base member is connected to third base member and so on, in a stacked and uniform configuration. The connection of the base members can be done such that each successively connected base member is adjacent to the one connected beforehand and thus as shown in  FIG.  16   , the connected base members rotate around a central axis like the hands of a clock. In  FIG.  16   , five different orientations are shown around the central connected axis, and then further base members can be connected and placed on top of previously connect members to form a stacking network. The number of orientations about the connected axis can be more or less than five, and five orientations are just an example. The uniform configuration is due to the orientation of the flat portion and the curved portion of the inner sidewall of receptacles  1436 ,  1536 , and the flat portion and the curved portion of the outer sidewall of posts  1444 ,  1544 . Accordingly, the plurality of base members connected together to define a recyclable assembly  1650 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  17 A- 19   , a contact lens package base member  1700  includes a planar top surface  1704 . Planar top surface  1704  has a sealing ring surface and an edge  1708 . Base member  1700  further includes a handle  1712  or gripping portion at least partially defined by planar top surface  1704 . A bottom surface  1716  opposes planar top surface  1704 . A bowl  1720  or recess is provided recessed from planar top surface  1704  and has an upper rim  1724  that intersects with planar top surface  1704  and defines a blister cavity. Blister cavity is configured for holding a contact lens. Bowl  1720  defines a dome  1722  protruding from bottom surface  1716  that intersects with bottom surface  1716  at a dome edge  1726 . Bowl  1720  has a concave interior surface and dome  1722  has a convex exterior surface. Handle  1712  extends away from bowl  1720  and terminates at a handle end  1732  or gripping portion end. 
     Planar top surface  1704  is a top surface of a flange projecting away from the blister cavity. Bottom surface  1716  is a bottom surface of the flange. The flange provides the sealing ring region that circumscribes blister cavity. The flange can also provide handle  1712  or gripping portion configured to be held between a thumb and a finger of a contact lens wearer. Handle  1712  can be located at a proximal end of the flange, and blister cavity can be located closer to a distal end of the flange. 
     The sealing ring surface of planar top surface  1704  can have a circular configuration or a non-circular configuration when viewed from a top plan view. 
     A female ridge  1736  is defined on the inner sidewall of bowl  1720 . The inner sidewall of bowl  1720  can have multiple female ridges  1736  that define a step shaped surface. Consequently, a male ridge  1744  is defined on the outer sidewall of dome  1722 . Outer sidewall of dome  1722  can have multiple male ridges  1744  that define a step shaped surface. Bowl  1720  and dome  1722  can be malleable, deformable, elastically deformable, a combination thereof, or the like. When pressed into one another, male ridge  1744  interlocks with a female ridge of another base member, creating a friction fit (or pressure fit or interference fit) and thus retaining (e.g., releasably retaining) the two base members together. 
     Contact lens package base member  1700  can include a vertical sidewall  1776 . Vertical sidewall  1776  provides strength to base member  1700 , prevents base member  1700  from tipping over, and/or prevents over-deformation of bowl  1720 . Vertical sidewall  1776  can add stability to base members that are connected together. Vertical sidewall  1776  extends downwardly from edge  1708  at the distal end of base member  1700  and at least partially surrounds dome  1722  (e.g., vertical sidewall  1776  can surround from 25% to 75% of the circumference of dome  1722 , such as 40% to 60%). Dome  1722  can have a depth that is the same or of greater dimension than a wall height of vertical sidewall  1776 . 
     Also provided is a combination of two or more contact lens package base members, as shown in  FIGS.  18  and  19   .  FIG.  18    is a cut-away and partial view of two base members friction fitted or pressure fitted together. The combination can be understood to be a stack or an assembly of contact lens package base members and can be a recyclable assembly  1950 . Contact lens package base members  1700 ,  1800  can be the same as described above. For example, a second base member  1800  can also have: a planar top surface  1804  having an edge  1808  and at least partially defining a handle  1812  or gripping portion; a bottom surface; a bowl  1820  or recess that is recessed from planar top surface  1804 , has an upper rim  1824  that intersects with planar top surface  1804 , and defines a cavity configured for holding a contact lens, handle  1812  extending away from bowl  1820  and terminating at a handle end  1832 ; a female ridge  1836  defined in bowl  1720 ; a male ridge  1844  defined on the dome; and a vertical sidewall  1876 . 
     The dome of a second contact lens package base member  1800  can be configured to friction fit into the bowl  1720  of base member  1700  (also referred to as first base member  1700 ). As shown in  FIG.  18   , the dome of second base member  1800  has been pressed into bowl  1720  of first base member  1700  such that male ridge  1844  of second base member  1800  interlocks or pressure fits with female ridge  1736  of first base member  1700 , friction fitting the first base member  1700  and second base member  1800  together. As shown in  FIG.  19   , second base member  1800  is connected to first base member  1700 , a third base member is connected to first base member  1700 , a fourth base member is connected to third base member and so on, in a stacked and uniform configuration. Accordingly, the plurality of base members connected together to define recyclable assembly  1950 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  20 A- 22   , a contact lens package base member  2000  includes a planar top surface  2004 . Planar top surface  2004  has a sealing ring surface and an edge  2008 . Base member  2000  further includes a handle  2012  or gripping portion at least partially defined by planar top surface  2004 . A bottom surface  2016  opposes planar top surface  2004 . A bowl  2020  or recess is provided recessed from planar top surface  2004  and has an upper rim  2024  that intersects with planar top surface  2004  and defines a blister cavity. The blister cavity is configured for holding a contact lens. Bowl  2020  defines a dome  2022  protruding from bottom surface  2016  that intersects with bottom surface  2016  at a dome edge  2026 . Bowl  2020  has a concave interior surface and dome  2022  has a convex exterior surface. Handle  2012  extends away from bowl  2020  and terminates at a handle end  2032  or gripping portion end. 
     Planar top surface  2004  is a top surface of a flange projecting away from the blister cavity. Bottom surface  2016  is a bottom surface of the flange. The flange provides the sealing ring region that circumscribes blister cavity. Handle  2012  can extend from or be formed of the flange. Handle  2012  can include a U-shape, in which a portion of edge  2008  is exposed in between the U-shape of handle  2012 . 
     The sealing ring surface of planar top surface  2004  can have a circular configuration or a non-circular configuration when viewed from a top plan view. 
     Base member  2000  can further include a plurality of notches defined on edge  2008 . As shown in  FIGS.  20 A and  20 B , the present invention can include a first notch  2036   a , a second notch  2036   b , a third notch  2036   c  and a fourth notch  2036   d . Notches  2036   a ,  2036   b ,  2036   c , and  2036   d  can be 90 degrees apart from one another relative to a vertical axis extending through the center of bowl  2020 . Fourth notch  2036   d  is defined at edge  2008  within the U-shape of handle  2012 . 
     Base member  2000  can further include a plurality of clips extending downward from edge  2008 . As shown in  FIGS.  20 A and  20 B , the present invention can include a first clip  2044   a , a second clip  2044   b , a third clip  2044   c , and a fourth clip  2044   d . Clips  2044   a ,  2044   b ,  2044   c , and  2044   d  can be 90 degrees apart from one another relative to a vertical axis extending through the center of dome  2022 . Each of clips  2044   a ,  2044   b ,  2044   c , and  2044   d  can have a barbed shaped end having a tapered surface facing inward and a receiving recess above the barbed shaped end at an inner surface of the respective clip. 
     Also provided is a combination of two or more contact lens package base members, as shown in  FIGS.  21  and  22   .  FIG.  21    is a cut-away and partial view of two base members connected together. The combination can be understood to be a stack or an assembly of contact lens package base members and can be a recyclable assembly  2250 . Contact lens package base members  2000 ,  2100  can be the same as described above. For example, a second base member  2100  can also have: a planar top surface  2104  having an edge and at least partially defining a handle  2112  or gripping portion; a bottom surface; a bowl  2120  or recess that is recessed from planar top surface  2104 , has an upper rim that intersects with planar top surface  2104 , and defines a cavity configured for holding a contact lens, handle  2112  extending away from bowl  2120  and terminating at a handle end  2132 ; four notches  2136 ; and four clips  2144 . 
     Clips  2144  of second contact lens package base member  2100  are first aligned with respective notches  2036   a ,  2036   b ,  2036   c , and  2036   d  of base member  2000  (also referred to as first base member  2000 ). Clips  2144  are urged over notches  2036   a ,  2036   b ,  2036   c , and  2036   d  such that the tapered surfaces of clips  2144  slide over notches  2036   a ,  2036   b ,  2036   c , and  2036   d , with clips  2144  temporarily being deformed. Once the tapered surfaces are urged past notches  2036   a ,  2036   b ,  2036   c , and  2036   d , the clips snap back to an original nondeformed state, and the receiving recesses of the clips  2144  receive notches  2036   a ,  2036   b ,  2036   c , and  2036   d , securing second base member  2100  to first base member  2000 . As shown in  FIG.  22   , second base member  2100  is connected to first base member  2000 , a third base member is connected to first base member  2100 , a fourth base member is connected to third base member and so on, in a stacked and uniform configuration. The configuration can be such that each successively connected base member is connected such that the handle is adjacent the handle of the previously connected base member immediately below. Thus, the connection of the base members can be done such that each successively connected base member is adjacent to the one connected beforehand and thus as shown in  FIG.  22   , the connected base members rotate around a central axis like the hands of a clock. In  FIG.  22   , four different orientations are shown around the central connected axis, with three to four more different orientations possible and then further base members can be connected and placed on top of previously connect members to form a stacking network. The number of orientations about the connected axis can be more or less than five, and the orientations and number of orientations are just an example. Accordingly, the plurality of base members connected together to define a recyclable assembly  2250 . Alternatively, base members  2100 ,  2200  can be stacked in a non-uniform configuration. 
     For any value provided for any dimension or size or angle or range, or other parameter herein, it is to be understood that these measurements or amounts or numbers can instead be a value that is plus or minus 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% or 25% from any one or more of the values provided. 
     As another aspect of the present invention, a method of manufacturing a packaged contact lens is provided. 
     The method of manufacturing can comprise, consists of, consist essentially of, or include the steps of providing a contact lens blister package as described herein; placing a contact lens into the blister cavity of the thermoplastic base member; placing a volume of liquid contact lens packaging solution into the blister cavity of the thermoplastic base member; and sealing a sealing member to the sealing rim region of the thermoplastic base member. 
     As with any thermoplastic base member, with the shape and design being understood and provided, the base members of the present invention, as described and shown herein, can be made by injection molding using conventional molding techniques and molding equipment. Essentially, the same equipment and procedures used to make convention base members can be applied and utilized here in view of the detailed description provided herein on the novel and inventive base members of the present invention. 
     The method of manufacturing can further include autoclaving the sealed contact lens blister package to sterilize the contact lens and the packaging solution. 
     A method of recycling a plurality of used contact lens package base members (as described herein) is also provided (e.g., an empty base member or a base member that has the seal member removed along with the lens and packaging solution removed). The method can comprise starting with or providing a plurality of used contact lens package base members. Each of the plurality of used contact lens package base members can independently define a cavity that is sized to retain a contact lens therein. 
     The method of recycling the contact lens blister package can comprise, consists of, or include: removing the sealing member from the thermoplastic base member; removing the contact lens from the blister cavity; removing the liquid contact lens packaging solution from the blister cavity; coupling two of the thermoplastic base members of two contact lens blister packages by inserting the proximal end of one thermoplastic base member into the hole (e.g., slot) of the second thermoplastic base member to form a thermoplastic base member assembly. 
     The method of recycling can further include coupling additional thermoplastic base members to the thermoplastic base member assembly to form an assembly comprising at least 5, at least 10, at least 20, or at least 30 thermoplastic base members coupled together to form a thermoplastic base member recycling unit. The thermoplastic base member assembly may comprise at least 14 thermoplastic base members coupled together, or at least 28 thermoplastic base members coupled together. 
     The method of recycling can further include placing the thermoplastic base member recycling unit in a recycling receptacle. 
     The method of recycling can involve utilizing the connecting feature that is part of the base member so as to connect a plurality of base members together. The connecting can comprise, consists of, or include interlocking two or more base members together utilizing the clip of one base member with a hole or slot of a second base member, or stacking two or more base members together utilizing stackable feature as described here. By utilizing the connecting feature, the base members are mechanically connected or fastened together by way of the clip and hole/slot and/or by way of the pin and the slot/recess or the nesting of bowls together. As a result, a stack is formed. 
     Once enough base members are stacked together, the stack can be large enough to be a recyclable assembly. The recyclable assembly can then be recycled. 
     The present invention further includes a recyclable thermoplastic contact lens assembly. The assembly can be considered a recyclable plastic contact lens assembly, a recyclable thermoplastic assembly, or a recyclable assembly. In lieu of a thermoplastic material, any recyclable material can be used. The recyclable assembly includes a plurality of empty contact lens packages as described herein. In other words, the recyclable assembly includes a plurality of contact lens package base members without contact lenses or packaging solution. Each empty contact lens package comprises a base member having a cavity. The base member is as described herein. The base members that are attached together are empty (i.e., the sealing member has been opened or removed and the contact lens removed by the wearer or user.) If the sealing member is of the same recycle category as the base member, as an option, the sealing member can be attached as well to the base members. 
     As an option, the recyclable thermoplastic assembly can have at least an overall height of at least 2 inches (e.g., from 2 inches to 6 inches or more) and either or both of a width and depth of at least 2 inches (e.g., from 2 inches to 6 inches or more). These dimensions permit the assembly to be deposited into a recycling bin and be acceptable for recycling in a recycling facility. 
     As indicated, the unworn contact lens is sealed within the cavity of the sealed contact lens package and is packaged in a contact lens packaging solution. Any contact lens can be packaged therein. For example, the contact lens can be a hydrogel contact lens or it can be a silicone hydrogel contact lens. Examples of contact lenses that can be provided in the packages include those having the following United States Adopted Names (USANs): methafilcon A, ocufilcon A, ocufilcon B, ocufilcon C, ocufilcon D, omafilcon A, omafilcon B, comfilcon A, enfilcon A, stenfilcon A, fanfilcon A, etafilcon A, senofilcon A, senofilcon B, senofilcon C, narafilcon A, narafilcon B, balafilcon A, samfilcon A, lotrafilcon A, lotrafilcon B, somofilcon A, riofilcon A, delefilcon A, kalifilcon A, lehfilcon A, and the like. The contact lens packaging solution is typically a buffered saline solution, such as a phosphate buffered saline solution or a borate buffered saline solution, that may contain one or more additives, such as surfactants, wetting agents, viscosity agents, and the like. 
     The contact lens in the base member can be a soft contact lens, such as a soft silicone hydrogel contact lens. 
     The contact lens may be of any lens wear modality. Lens wear modality refers to the how many days and nights in a row the lens can be worn without removal. In one example, the contact lens is a daily disposable lens. Daily disposable lenses are indicated for single use, up to about 12 or 16 hours of continuous wear and should be discarded after the single use. In another example, the contact lens is a daily wear lens. Daily wear lenses are worn during the waking hours, typically up to about 12 to 16 hours, and are removed before sleep. Daily wear lenses are typically stored in a contact lens case containing a contact lens care solution for cleaning and disinfecting the lens during the hours of non-use. Daily wear lenses are typically discarded after a maximum of 30 days wear. In yet another example, the contact lens is an extended wear lens. Extended wear lenses are typically worn continuously for up to 6, 14 or 30 consecutive days and nights. 
     The packaging solution sealed within the contact lens package may be any conventional contact-lens compatible solution. In one example, the packaging solution comprises, consists, or consists essentially, of an aqueous solution of a buffer, and/or a tonicity agent. In another example, the packaging solution contains additional agents such as one or more additional antimicrobial agents, and/or a comfort agent, and/or a hydrophilic polymer, and/or a surfactant and/or other beneficial agent. In some examples, the packaging solution may comprise polysaccharides (e.g., hyaluronic acid, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, etc.) or other high molecular weight polymers, such as polyvinyl pyrrolidone, which are commonly used as comfort polymers or thickening agents in ophthalmic solutions and contact lens packaging solutions. In other examples, the packaging solution may comprise an ophthalmic drug. The packaging solution can have a pH in the range of about 6.8 or 7.0 up to about 7.8 or 8.0. In one example, the packaging solution comprises phosphate buffer or borate buffer. In another example, the packaging solution comprises a tonicity agent selected from sodium chloride or sorbitol in an amount to maintain osmolality in the range of about 200 to 400 mOsm/kg, and typically from about 270 mOsm/kg up to about 310 mOsm/kg. 
     It will be appreciated that conventional manufacturing methods can be used to manufacture the sealed contact lens package. In a method of manufacturing a contact lens package, the method can include the step of placing an unworn contact lens and a contact lens packaging solution in a receptacle, placing a cover on the receptacle, and sealing the cover on the receptacle. Generally, the receptacle is configured to receive a single contact lens and an amount of packaging solution sufficient to completely cover the contact lens, typically about 0.5-1.5 ml. In one example, the receptacle comprises a plastic base member comprising a connecting member (e.g., a latch, a slot), a cavity configured to retain the contact lens and packaging solution and a flange region extending outwardly around the cavity, and the cover comprises a removable foil (or other sealing cover or lid) attached to the flange region to provide the sealed contact lens package. The removable foil (or other sealing cover or lid) may be sealed by any conventional means such as heat sealing or gluing. The method of manufacturing the sealed contact lens package may further comprise sterilizing the unworn contact lens by autoclaving the sealed contact lens package. The sealed package may be sterilized by sterilizing amounts of radiation, including heat or steam, such as by autoclaving, or by gamma radiation, e-beam radiation, ultraviolet radiation, etc. Autoclaving generally involves subjecting the sealed contact lens package to temperatures of at least 121° C. for at least 20 minutes. 
     With the present invention, it becomes possible to recycle used or opened contact lens packages as a collective unit such that the packages that form the collective unit preferably do not break or separate while being processed at a recycling facility. The collective unit is sufficiently dimensioned so as to be processed as recyclable material. 
     With the present invention, a person has an easy way to recycle used or opened contact lens packages. 
     With the present invention, a person has a simple yet efficient way to recycle used or opened contact lens packages, and by providing a simple way, this can encourage a person to actually recycle this material. For example, after removing the sealing member and contact lens from the base member, the base member can simply be pressed against another open base member such that the two are coupled together to form an assembly or stack that has a size, such as a volume or surface area that is greater than a single base member alone. Once enough base members are stacked, minimum size requirements can be met and a recyclable assembly is formed. As a further example, the base members can be coupled together to form an assembly of at least 14 base members. Further, the assembly can be formed by at least 28 or at least 30 base members coupled together. 
     References herein to “an example” or “a specific example” or “an aspect” or “an embodiment” or similar phrase, are intended to introduce a feature or features of the invention, or components thereof, or methods thereof (depending on context) that can be combined with any combination of previously-described or subsequently-described examples, aspects, embodiments (i.e., features), unless a particular combination of features is mutually exclusive, or if context indicates otherwise. Further, as used in this specification, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents (e.g., at least one or more) unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a “contact lens” includes a single lens as well as two or more of the same or different lenses. 
     The present invention includes the following aspects/embodiments/features in any order and/or in any combination: 
     1. The present invention relates to a contact lens blister package, comprising: 
     a thermoplastic base member (a first base member) comprising a bowl that defines a blister cavity dimensioned to accommodate a contact lens, and a flange projecting away from the blister cavity, the flange providing a sealing ring region circumscribing the blister cavity, and the flange having a first proximal end providing a gripping portion configured to be held between a thumb and a finger of a contact lens wearer, and a second distal end extending away from the proximal end from the opposite side of the blister cavity; 
     a liquid contact lens packaging solution provided in the blister cavity; 
     an unworn contact lens located in the contact lens packaging solution in the cavity; and 
     a sealing member hermetically sealed to the sealing ring region of the thermoplastic base member to maintain the contact lens in a sterile condition, 
     wherein the flange comprises at least one connecting feature located between an outer perimeter of the sealing ring region and the proximal end of the flange, the at least one connecting member being configured to mechanically fasten the thermoplastic base member to a second thermoplastic base member or second base member, such as a substantially identical thermoplastic base member, of another contact lens blister package to form a thermoplastic base member assembly. The second base member has at least one connecting member that is same or complimentary to the at least one connecting member of the first base member. 
     2. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the contact lens is a hydrogel contact lens or a silicone hydrogel contact lens. 
     3. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the thermoplastic base member comprises a recyclable plastic material. 
     4. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the thermoplastic base member comprises a polypropylene material. 
     5. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the sealing ring region has a circular configuration or a non-circular configuration when viewed from a top plan view. 
     6. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the sealing ring region has a non-circular configuration that includes a vertex. 
     7. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the sealing ring region has a width from 1.0 mm to 4.0 mm. 
     8. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the gripping portion is planar. 
     9. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the connecting member is at least one of an interlocking feature and a stackable feature. 
     10. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the connecting member is the interlocking feature, and the interlocking feature comprises a hole, a clip, a latch, or any combinations thereof.
 
11. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the interlocking feature comprises the hole on the flange.
 
12. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the interlocking feature comprises the hole and the hole is a slot defined through the flange, the slot having a length greater than a width.
 
13. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the slot is located at a greater distance from the blister cavity than an outer perimeter of the flange.
 
14. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the width of the slot is from 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm and the length of the slot is from 3.0 mm to 13.0 mm.
 
15. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the length of the slot is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the thermoplastic base member.
 
16. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the length of the slot is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the thermoplastic base member.
 
17. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the slot is from 5 degrees to 45 degrees from being perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the thermoplastic base member.
 
18. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the slot comprises a notch defined at an edge of the slot.
 
19. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the notch is defined along a side of the length of the slot.
 
20. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the notch is off-centered from a center of the length of the slot.
 
21. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the notch is at a center of the length of the slot.
 
22. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the notch has a square shape, a rectangular shape, an oval shape, or a circular shape.
 
23. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the interlocking feature further comprises a clip having dimensions configured to fit through the slot.
 
24. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the clip is configured to be inserted into a slot of a second thermoplastic base member such that the thermoplastic base member is interlocked with the second thermoplastic base member.
 
25. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the clip further comprises a bottom surface that is angled and defines a barb configured to be inserted into a slot of a second thermoplastic base member from a first direction and the slot of the second thermoplastic base member is configured to prevent the barb from exiting in a second direction, opposite the first direction.
 
26. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the clip further comprises a first end having a tapered surface defining a first barb and a second end having a tapered surface defining a second barb, wherein the first barb and the second barb are configured to be inserted into a slot of a second thermoplastic base member from a first direction and the slot of the second thermoplastic base member is configured to prevent the first barb and the second barb from exiting in a second direction, opposite the first direction.
 
27. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the clip further comprises a key protruding therefrom, wherein the key is positioned to fit within a notch of a second thermoplastic base member.
 
28. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the key is off-centered from a center of a length of the clip in a position that mirrors the notch.
 
29. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein a position of the key and the notch is configured such that when the key is inserted into a notch of a second thermoplastic base member, the second thermoplastic base member is oriented in a specific manner relative to the thermoplastic base member.
 
30. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the key is at a center of a length of the clip.
 
31. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the clip is defined at a gripping portion end of the thermoplastic base member.
 
32. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the connecting member is the stackable feature.
 
33. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the stackable feature comprises a receptacle formed at a top surface of the flange.
 
34. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the receptacle is located on the gripping portion, in between a gripping portion end and the blister cavity.
 
35. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the stackable feature further comprises a post extending downward from the bottom surface, wherein the post is configured to friction fit or interference fit within a receptacle of a second thermoplastic base member.
 
36. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the post and the receptacle have a common central axis.
 
37. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the stackable feature comprises at least one female ridge defined on an inner sidewall of the bowl, and at least one male ridge defined on an outer sidewall of the bowl.
 
38. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the at least one male ridge is configured to friction fit or interference fit within at least one female ridge of a second thermoplastic base member.
 
39. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the stackable feature comprises a plurality of clips extending downward from an outer perimeter of the flange, and a plurality of notches defined at the outer perimeter in between the plurality of clips.
 
40. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein each of the plurality of clips is configured to mechanically fasten to a respective notch of a plurality of notches of a second thermoplastic base member.
 
41. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the plurality of clips each comprise a tapered end defining a barb configured to interlock with a respective notch of a second thermoplastic base member.
 
42. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the liquid contact lens packaging solution is present in an amount from 0.4 mL to 1.6 mL.
 
43. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the thermoplastic base member has a length from 40.0 mm to 50.0 mm, and a width from 25.0 mm to 35.0 mm.
 
44. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the blister cavity has a depth from 5.0 mm to 8.0 mm.
 
45. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the thermoplastic base member has a thickness, and the blister cavity is defined by a curved surface of the bowl having a thickness of X mm, and the flange of the thermoplastic base member has a thickness that is no greater than X.
 
46. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the thermoplastic base member consists of a thermoplastic material having a flexural modulus from 1600 MPa (232,000 psi) to 1900 MPa (275,500 psi), as measured using the ISO 178 testing method.
 
47. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the flange of the thermoplastic base member has a stiffness from 50,000 psi·mm 2  to 150,000 psi·mm 2 .
 
48. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the flange of the thermoplastic base member has a stiffness from 60,000 psi·mm 2  to 90,000 psi·mm 2 .
 
49. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the thermoplastic base member comprises a plurality of tabs depending from the top surface of the flange of the thermoplastic base member.
 
50. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the plurality of tabs is two side tabs having a height from 2.0 mm to 4.0 mm, and a length from 6.0 mm to 10.0 mm.
 
51. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the gripping portion of the flange is located at a proximal end of the flange and the blister cavity is located closer to a distal end of the flange.
 
52. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the bowl of the thermoplastic base member has a concave interior surface and a convex exterior surface, and a plurality of stabilizing legs extend from the bottom surface of the flange of the thermoplastic base member and circumscribe the convex exterior surface of the bowl.
 
53. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the plurality of stabilizing legs is three stabilizing legs positioned approximately 120 degrees apart from each other about a vertical axis extending through the center of the blister cavity.
 
54. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the plurality of stabilizing legs each include a respective planar lower edge.
 
55. The present invention also relates to a method of manufacturing a packaged contact lens, comprising:
 
     providing the contact lens blister package of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect; 
     placing the contact lens into the blister cavity of the thermoplastic base member; 
     placing a volume of the liquid contact lens packaging solution into the blister cavity of the thermoplastic base member; and 
     sealing the sealing member to the sealing rim region of the thermoplastic base member. 
     56. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, further comprising autoclaving the sealed contact lens blister package to sterilize the contact lens and the packaging solution. 
     57. The present invention also relates to a method of recycling the contact lens blister package or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, comprising: 
     removing the sealing member from the thermoplastic base member; 
     removing the contact lens from the blister cavity; 
     removing the liquid contact lens packaging solution from the blister cavity; 
     coupling two of the thermoplastic base members of two contact lens blister packages with the at least one connecting member. 
     58. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, further comprising coupling additional thermoplastic base members to the thermoplastic base member assembly to form an assembly comprising at least 30 thermoplastic base members coupled together to form a thermoplastic base member recycling unit.
 
59. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, further comprising placing the thermoplastic base member recycling unit in a recycling receptacle.
 
60. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the connecting feature of the thermoplastic base member and a connecting feature of the second base member (or second thermoplastic base member) are the same.
 
61. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the connecting feature of the thermoplastic base member and a connecting feature of the second base member (or second thermoplastic base member) are complimentary to each other.
 
62. The contact lens blister package or method or other embodiment of any preceding or following embodiment/feature/aspect, wherein the thermoplastic base member and the second base member (or second thermoplastic base member) have the same design.
 
     The present invention can include any combination of these various features or embodiments above and/or below as set forth in sentences and/or paragraphs. Any combination of disclosed features herein is considered part of the present invention and no limitation is intended with respect to combinable features. 
     The disclosure herein refers to certain illustrated examples, it is to be understood that these examples are presented by way of example and not by way of limitation. The intent of the foregoing detailed description, although discussing exemplary examples, is to be construed to cover all modifications, alternatives, and equivalents of the examples as may fall within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the additional disclosure. 
     The entire contents of all cited references in this disclosure, to the extent that they are not inconsistent with the present disclosure, are incorporated herein by reference. 
     The present invention can include any combination of the various features or embodiments described above and/or in the claims below as set forth in sentences and/or paragraphs. Any combination of disclosed features herein is considered part of the present invention and no limitation is intended with respect to combinable features. 
     Other embodiments of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the present specification and practice of the present invention disclosed herein. It is intended that the present specification and examples be considered as exemplary only with a true scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by the following claims and equivalents thereof.