Patent Description:
Sterilization trays provide a container for retaining reusable medical devices during a patient's surgical procedure (e.g., during the perioperative process, which may include preoperative care, intraoperative care, and postoperative care) and/or during the central sterile processing process (e.g., autoclave-based steam sterilization). Included within the central sterile processing process are the steps of decontamination, cleaning, assemble and pack, sterilization, storage, distribution/transportation, and aseptic presentation. In hospitals and other health care facilities, a sterile processing department (e.g., Central Sterile Services Department) performs sterilization and other actions on medical devices, equipment, and consumables for subsequent use by medical professionals in the operating room of the hospital (or other health care facility) and also for other aseptic procedures.

Sterilization trays may include a cover, a base, and one or more attachment mechanisms for retaining reusable medical devices. After central sterile processing, sterilization trays may be brought into the operating room, or other venue, to provide a "tool box" for medical professionals to work out of. Despite being used by medical professionals as a "tool box", sterilization trays provide no feedback, instruction, or ease of modularity to assist medical professionals.

Based on the foregoing, a need exists for an effective modular "tool box" that offers flexibility and reliability in the positioning of reusable medical devices in connection with the perioperative process, the central sterile processing process, and/or subsequent access to/use of the sterilized reusable medical devices. Thus, an interest exists for modular sterilization trays and brackets, and related methods of use. These and other inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement are addressed and/or overcome by the assemblies, systems and methods of the present disclosure.

Examples of known devices are shown in <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT> or <CIT>.

The invention is defined in the independent claim and other embodiments are listed in the dependent claims.

The present disclosure provides an advantageous assembly for detachably retaining devices relative to a container (e.g., a tray). In particular, the present disclosure is directed to systems/methods for detachably retaining reusable medical devices and other instruments during the perioperative process and/or during the central sterile processing process. Even more particularly, exemplary assemblies are disclosed that include a tray with at least one modular post/partition (e.g., bracket and divider) assembly mounted directly or indirectly thereto, for detachable retention of reusable medical devices and/or instruments to facilitate use/exposure during the perioperative process and the central sterile processing process.

As used throughout, the term "reusable medical device," "medical device," or any combination thereof, includes an instrument, apparatus, implement, machine, contrivance, implant, in vitro reagent, or other similar or related article, including a component part, accessory, lab equipment, reagent, or test kit, as will be known to a person skilled in the art. The above definition of a reusable medical device is intended to be broader than the definition provided by the United States Food and Drug Administration (e.g., https://www. gov/MedicalDevices/DeviceRegulationandGuidance/Overview/ClassifyYourDevi ce/ucm051512. Although the reusable medical device is referenced for use during surgery, additional instruments and/or devices that require central sterile processing, but are not used in connection with surgery, are expressly included in the present disclosure. Central sterile processing may include autoclave steam sterilization, which combines heat, humidity, and elevated pressure to sterilize a medical device. As used herein, a "user" generally refers to a human or a non-human and, in the case of a non-human, the term "user" generally refers to systems and devices that constitute and/or are controlled, in whole or in part, by software, artificial intelligence, robots and/or recognition software/machines.

In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides an advantageous modular post and partition (e.g., bracket and divider) assembly that is configured and adapted to detachably interface with a tray and further withstand the harsh environment of a central sterile processing process. As used herein, modular post and partition assembly may be alternatively referred to as "modular post assembly," "modular partition assembly," "modular bracket assembly," "modular divider assembly," "post assembly," "bracket assembly," "divider assembly," among other logical variations, as will be understood in view of this disclosure. Based on this disclosure, it should be understood that "modular post assembly" and "post assembly" further include at least one partition (e.g., bracket and divider). Exemplary modular post assemblies according to the present disclosure may be removed and relocated relative to a tray without additional fasteners or components. The disclosed post and partition assembly may further provide identification features to associate cataloged reusable medical devices to identified trays.

Any combination or permutation of features, functions and/or embodiments as disclosed herein is envisioned. Additional advantageous features, functions and applications of the disclosed systems, methods and assemblies of the present disclosure will be apparent from the description which follows, particularly when read in conjunction with the appended figures.

Features and aspects of embodiments are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which elements are not necessarily depicted to scale.

Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are further described with reference to the appended figures. It is to be noted that the various features, steps and combinations of features/steps described below and illustrated in the figures can be arranged and organized differently to result in embodiments which are still within the scope of the present disclosure.

To assist those of ordinary skill in the art in making and using the disclosed assemblies, systems and methods, reference is made to the appended figures, wherein:.

The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative of advantageous mounting assemblies (e.g., assemblies/devices for detachable retention of reusable medical devices during the perioperative process and/or during the central sterile processing process), and systems of the present disclosure and methods/techniques thereof. It should be understood, however, that the disclosed embodiments are merely illustrative of the present disclosure, which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, details disclosed herein with reference to exemplary assemblies/fabrication methods and associated processes/techniques of assembly and use are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as the basis for teaching one skilled in the art how to make and use the advantageous assemblies/systems of the present disclosure.

The present disclosure provides an advantageous assembly for detachably retaining and/or containing reusable medical devices and other devices relative to a tray. In particular, the present disclosure is directed to systems/methods for detachably retaining reusable medical devices and other instruments during the perioperative process and/or during the central sterile processing process. Even more particularly, exemplary assemblies are disclosed that include a tray with at least one modular post and partition assembly mounted directly or indirectly thereto, for detachable retention of reusable medical devices and/or instruments to facilitate use/exposure during the perioperative process and/or during the central sterile processing process.

In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides an advantageous modular post and partition assembly that is configured and adapted to detachably interface with a tray and further withstand the harsh environment of a central sterile processing process. Exemplary modular post assemblies of the present disclosure may be removed and relocated relative to a tray without additional fasteners or components. The disclosed post assemblies may further provide identification features to correctly associate cataloged reusable medical devices to identified trays.

The disclosed post may include engagement features to accommodate at least one partition (e.g., bracket and divider). Partition may include corresponding engagement features to releasably engage with the disclosed post. Engagement with the disclosed post may be accomplished without fasteners. The disclosed tray may further include similar post engagement features to capture at least one partition (e.g., bracket and divider). In an exemplary embodiment, the post/partition assembly may include at least two posts and at least one partition (e.g., bracket and divider). In another exemplary embodiment, the disclosed post may capture about four partitions (e.g., brackets and dividers). In some embodiments, the angle between one post engagement feature, in comparison to an adjacent post engagement feature, is substantially similar. In exemplary embodiments, the angle between each of the adjacent post engagement features is between about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees, which further defines a range of about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees. In some embodiments, at least two post engagement features may be situated such that when at least two partitions are installed, the at least two partitions are substantially parallel.

As used herein, "partition" may refer to a bracket or a divider. The functionality of the various partitions will be better understood with reference to the figures and this disclosure. Additional partition designs may be utilized, as described in <CIT>.

Referring now to the drawings, like parts are marked throughout the specification and drawings with the same reference numerals, respectively. Drawing figures are not necessarily to scale and in certain views, parts may have been exaggerated or removed for purposes of clarity.

With reference to <FIG>, advantageous post <NUM> may include body <NUM> and tray attachment feature (e.g., clip) <NUM>. Body <NUM> and clip <NUM> may be fabricated to form a unitary component (e.g., molding, casting, extruding) or may be assembled together from individual components. In one embodiment, where body <NUM> and clip <NUM> are a single fabricated component, some features of one component may extend through or blend into the other component. Therefore, it should be understood that the labels "body" and "clip" are merely explanatory and are not intended to rigidly define post <NUM>.

Body <NUM> may be fabricated such that the ratio between the height and the cross-section favors the height. However, the ratio between the height and cross-section may be equal or may favor the cross-section, depending on the application, as will be evident from this disclosure. The cross-section of body <NUM> may be fabricated from a variety of shapes, including a quadrilateral (e.g., square, rectangle, diamond), a circle, a triangle, a balbis ("H-shape"), a cross ("plus sign"), among others, as will be apparent based on the intended purpose of this disclosure.

In an exemplary embodiment, body <NUM> has a height that is greater that the cross-sectional distance and a cross-section with a substantially cross shape ("plus sign"). Body <NUM> further includes at least one engagement feature. Engagement feature may include at least one slot <NUM> and at least one hole <NUM>. At least one slot <NUM> is defined by two side walls <NUM>, <NUM>. At least one hole <NUM> may be centrally located on top face <NUM> and extend some distance inward from top face <NUM> to clip portion <NUM>. Slot <NUM> may extend some distance from top surface <NUM> towards clip <NUM>. In some embodiments, slot <NUM> extends from top surface <NUM> through at least a portion of clip <NUM>. The depth of slot <NUM> may be further defined by the distance between face <NUM> and slot bottom <NUM>. Slot <NUM> may be recessed a distance below top face <NUM>, such that slot top <NUM> is the top of slot <NUM>. The cavity between slot top <NUM> and top face <NUM> is configured and dimensioned to accept a portion of partition, further described below. Slot <NUM>, as defined by side walls <NUM>, <NUM> and slot bottom <NUM>, may be square, rectangle, semi-circular, among other shapes.

Body <NUM> may further include additional engagement features. For example, alternatively located holes, dimples, slots, cavities, fasteners, etc., as can be appreciated in view of this disclosure. It is a desire to illustrate that post <NUM> and at least one partition may be releasably attached. As such, engagement features that provide attachment and detachment of at least one partition from post <NUM> are appreciated.

Clip <NUM> may include clip body <NUM> and two symmetrically adjacent arms <NUM>, located on either side of clip body <NUM>. Clip body <NUM> may be coplanar with face <NUM>. In some embodiments, side walls <NUM>, <NUM> and clip body <NUM> may be the same component, as depicted in <FIG>. In other embodiments, clip <NUM> may be a separate component, as described in <CIT>. As mentioned above, slot <NUM> may extend at least partially through clip <NUM>. In one embodiment, slot <NUM> may extend from top surface <NUM> through base <NUM> on clip body <NUM>. Surface <NUM> connects arm <NUM> to clip body <NUM> by way of shoulder <NUM>. Located above arm base <NUM> is cavity <NUM>, which provides a tray attachment feature to directly or indirectly attach to at least one tray perforation (See, <FIG>). The disclosed interface features of cavity <NUM> may include back face <NUM>, upper face <NUM>, and lower face <NUM>, which collectively form cavity <NUM>. In relation to back face <NUM>, the length of lower face <NUM> may be shorter than the length of upper face <NUM>, as depicted. Lower face <NUM> having a shorter length enables an easier installation and removal from tray perforations without sacrificing clip engagement. However, in another embodiment, upper face <NUM> and lower face <NUM> may have similarly dimensioned lengths.

In exemplary operation, at least a portion of cavity <NUM> captures a portion of a tray perforation. To ensure clip <NUM> does not shift after installation with the tray, back face <NUM> is under spring load in contact with an inside wall of a perforation. In one example, by simultaneously compressing arms <NUM>, such that face <NUM> moves closer to outer face <NUM> on clip body <NUM>, the distance between back face <NUM> on either arm <NUM> is shortened so that cavity <NUM> may be inserted into the respective perforations. Once arms <NUM> are released into their relaxed position, back face <NUM> will be in contact with an inside wall of a perforation, as discussed above. In another example, arms <NUM> are individually compressed so that face <NUM> moves closer to outer face <NUM> on clip body <NUM>, and each individual cavity <NUM> is introduced into the respective perforation. Of note, attachment is not to be limited to the bottom of the tray (not shown); rather, attachment may further be accomplished with the sidewalls and the cover (not shown). For purposes of the present disclosure, when one of a tray, a sidewall(s) and/or a cover are mentioned, the others not mentioned are included, unless otherwise stated.

In an exemplary embodiment, arms <NUM> may include a semi-circular feature <NUM> located on the outside surface of arm <NUM>, opposite surface <NUM>. Semi-circular feature <NUM> may provide a specific location for a user to place their fingers to assist in compressing arms <NUM> for insertion or removal from a tray.

Various post assemblies may include at least one clip <NUM>, described above, for direct or indirect attachment to a tray. However, in an exemplary embodiment, two clips <NUM> may be used to engage one post <NUM> with a sterilization tray. As previously mentioned, a partition may refer to a bracket and/or a divider. For merely an illustrative explanation, which is not intended to be limiting, a bracket, as used herein, refers to a component that directly/indirectly engages with a medical device. A divider, however, does not directly capture a medical device, but may be used to create a containment area (e.g., a square or rectangle) or separate an area. The disclosed bracket may further act as a divider. In any case, "partition" encompasses a "divider" and a "bracket" and the use of "divider" or "bracket" is merely to supplement "partition" for explanatory purposes only.

In an exemplary embodiment, at least two posts <NUM> may directly/indirectly engage with at least one partition (e.g., bracket and divider). <FIG> depicts a partially assembled post/partition assembly <NUM> utilizing dual posts <NUM> and partition (e.g., divider) <NUM>. <FIG> depicts a fully assembled partition assembly <NUM>. To better understand the interface between post <NUM> and partition, it is best to view <FIG> with reference to post <NUM> (<FIG>) and partition (e.g., divider and bracket) figures (<FIG> and <FIG>).

With reference to <FIG>, divider <NUM> is defined by top surface <NUM>, bottom surface <NUM> and sides <NUM>. Divider <NUM> may include sides <NUM>, which define a first width, and cutouts <NUM>, which define a second width, wherein the second width is narrower than the first width.

Divider <NUM> may further include at least one engagement feature to interface with at least one post <NUM>. In an exemplary embodiment, divider <NUM> includes at least one hook feature <NUM>. Hook feature <NUM> may be situated at various positions along sides <NUM> based on the desired interface between divider <NUM> and post <NUM>. Hook feature <NUM> may at least partially extend from top surface <NUM> and side <NUM> to form an overhang <NUM>. Extension feature <NUM> may further extend from overhang <NUM> towards bottom surface <NUM>, thereby at least partially forming cavity <NUM>. Extension feature <NUM> may be substantially perpendicular to overhang <NUM>. Extension feature <NUM> may be angled in relation to overhang <NUM>. Extension feature further includes side <NUM>, which, in addition to side <NUM> and cavity bottom <NUM>, at least partially defines cavity <NUM>. Extension feature <NUM> may further include an element to facilitate an easier installation and removal of hook feature <NUM> from hole <NUM> of post <NUM>. Extension feature <NUM> may include a chamfered element <NUM> at the base of side <NUM>.

Additional features may be incorporated into divider <NUM>. For example, advantageous cutouts <NUM> may be incorporated into bottom surface <NUM>. In doing so, the contact of bottom surface <NUM> with the top surface of the tray would be limited. However, cutouts <NUM> are not intended to be limited to those instances where bottom surface <NUM> interfaces with the top surface of a tray. Cutouts <NUM> may be a variety of shapes, including a square, triangle, rectangle, circle, oval, among others. In another example, bottom surface <NUM> remains intact and cutouts <NUM> are located some distance away from bottom surface <NUM>. Additional cutouts <NUM> may be incorporated into divider face <NUM>. Cutouts <NUM> may be a variety of shapes, including a square, triangle, rectangle, circle, oval, among others. Cutouts <NUM>, <NUM> may enable sterilization materials to pass through (or under) divider <NUM> and into the area on the other side of divider <NUM>.

Divider <NUM> may be fabricated in a variety of lengths and heights. Utilizing the grid-based perforation pattern of a tray, divider <NUM> may be fabricated in a length that is consistent with the distance between perforations. A variety of lengths can be appreciated, including <NUM> slot divider <NUM>, see <FIG>, which, including two posts <NUM>, encompasses the width of a standard sterilization tray. Aside from length, <NUM> slot divider <NUM> is very similar to divider <NUM>, therefore, liked components are numbered. Divider <NUM>, as depicted, is a <NUM> slot divider. The divider length may be between one slot to about forty slots, and every variation therebetween.

In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in <FIG>, divider assembly <NUM> includes two posts <NUM> and at least one divider <NUM>, <NUM>. In operation, posts <NUM> are positioned directly/indirectly in relation to a tray (not shown) at a distance consistent with the desired divider length. Side <NUM> of divider <NUM>, <NUM> is aligned with slot <NUM> of post <NUM>, such that cutout <NUM> is introduced first. Cutout <NUM> acts as a locating feature for insertion of divider <NUM>, <NUM> into slot <NUM>. In some embodiments, cutout <NUM> may not touch post <NUM> at all and is merely designed for gradual insertion/removal from slot <NUM>. Once engaged, sides <NUM> slide within slot <NUM> until divider <NUM>, <NUM> is fully engaged with post <NUM>. Fully engaged may refer to an engagement feature and/or the end (e.g., bottom) of slot <NUM>. Hook feature <NUM> may engage with hole <NUM> of post <NUM> to act as an engagement feature and semi-permanently constrain divider <NUM>, <NUM> to post <NUM>.

In another exemplary embodiment, with reference to <FIG>, partition (e.g., bracket) assembly <NUM> advantageously depicts a potential assembly including post <NUM>, partition (e.g., bracket) <NUM> and bracket insert <NUM>. Bracket assembly <NUM> is assembled substantially similar to <FIG>, as described above.

Bracket assembly <NUM> is best understood with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. With reference to <FIG>, bracket <NUM> is defined by top surface <NUM>, bottom surface <NUM> and sides <NUM>. Bracket <NUM> may include sides <NUM>, which define a first width, and cutouts <NUM>, which define a second width, wherein the second width is narrower than the first width.

Bracket <NUM> may further include at least one engagement feature to interface with at least one post <NUM>. In an exemplary embodiment, bracket <NUM> includes at least one hook feature <NUM>. Hook feature <NUM> may be situated at various positions along sides <NUM> based on the desired interface between bracket <NUM> and post <NUM>. Hook feature <NUM> may at least partially extend from top surface <NUM> and side <NUM> to form overhang <NUM>. Extension feature <NUM> may further extend from overhang <NUM> towards bottom surface <NUM>, thereby at least partially forming cavity <NUM>. Extension feature <NUM> may be substantially perpendicular to overhang <NUM>. Extension feature <NUM> may be angled in relation to overhang <NUM>. Extension feature further includes side <NUM>, which, in addition to side <NUM> and cavity bottom <NUM>, at least partially defines cavity <NUM>. Extension feature <NUM> may further include an element to facilitate an easier installation and removal of hook feature <NUM> from hole <NUM> of post <NUM>. Extension feature <NUM> may include a chamfered element <NUM> at the base of side <NUM>.

Additional features may be incorporated into bracket <NUM>. For example, advantageous cutouts <NUM> may be incorporated into bottom surface <NUM>. In doing so, the contact of bottom surface <NUM> with the top surface of tray would be minimal. However, cutouts <NUM> may be included in instances where bottom surface <NUM> does not interface with the top surface of a tray. Cutouts <NUM> may be a variety of shapes, including a square, triangle, rectangle, circle, oval, among others. In another example, bottom surface <NUM> is unaffected and cutouts <NUM> are located some distance above bottom surface <NUM>, towards top surface <NUM>. Cutouts <NUM> may enable sterilization materials to pass through bracket <NUM> and into the area on the other side of bracket <NUM>.

In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in <FIG> in view of <FIG>, with relation to divider assembly <NUM>, bracket assembly <NUM> includes two posts <NUM> and at least one bracket <NUM>. In operation, posts <NUM> are positioned directly/indirectly in relation to a tray (not shown) at a distance consistent with the desired bracket length. Side <NUM> of bracket <NUM> is aligned with slot <NUM> of post <NUM>, such that cutout <NUM> is introduced first. Cutout <NUM> acts as a locating feature for insertion of bracket <NUM> into slot <NUM>. In some embodiments, cutout <NUM> may not touch post <NUM> at all and is merely designed for gradual insertion/removal from slot <NUM>. Once engaged, sides <NUM> slide within slot <NUM> until bracket <NUM> is fully engaged with post <NUM>. Fully engaged may refer to insertion of an engagement feature and/or bracket <NUM> "bottoming out" at the end of slot <NUM>. In an exemplary embodiment, hook feature <NUM> may engage with hole <NUM> of post <NUM> to act as an engagement feature and to semi-permanently constrain bracket <NUM> to post <NUM>.

As previously stated, bracket <NUM> may further include features to directly/indirectly capture medical devices. In one embodiment, bracket <NUM> includes features to capture medical devices. Bracket <NUM> may feature variously sized U-shaped or partially U-shaped cavities (not shown), i.e., attachment features, fabricated within. U-shaped cavities (not shown) may capture the exterior surface of a reusable medical device for retention to a tray. U-shaped cavity (not shown) may be used to capture the handle of a reusable medical device (not shown). Conversely, U-shaped cavity (not shown) may be used to capture the tool portion of a reusable medical device (not shown).

Bracket <NUM> may be fabricated in a variety of lengths and heights. Utilizing the grid-based perforation pattern of a tray, bracket <NUM> may be fabricated in a length that is consistent with the distance between perforations. A variety of lengths can be appreciated, including a one slot bracket <NUM> to about forty slots bracket <NUM>, and every variation therebetween. For example, a <NUM> slot bracket, including two posts <NUM>, fills the width of a standard sterilization tray.

In yet another embodiment, bracket <NUM> includes cavity <NUM>, which is configured and dimensioned to accept at least one insert (See, e.g., <FIG>). Cavity <NUM> is defined by cavity sidewall <NUM> and cavity base <NUM>. The dimensions of cavity <NUM> may be smaller than the perimeter dimensions of insert <NUM>, as discussed below. Feature <NUM> may assist with assembling bracket <NUM> with insert <NUM>.

Insert <NUM> is defined by top surface <NUM>, bottom surface <NUM> and sides <NUM>. Located on bottom surface <NUM> and sides <NUM> are slots <NUM>, <NUM> for releasable engagement with bracket <NUM>. Slot <NUM> is at least partially defined by sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> and a base (not shown). Similarly, slot <NUM> is at least partially defined by sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> and a base (not shown). The distance between sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, <NUM> is at least equivalent to the thickness of bracket <NUM>. The distance between sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, <NUM> may at least be slightly larger than the thickness of bracket <NUM>. However, if the material of insert <NUM> is substantially malleable then the distance between sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, <NUM> may be slightly smaller than the thickness of bracket <NUM>. The depth of slot <NUM> may be at least the distance between cavity sidewalls <NUM>. The depth of slot <NUM> may be at least sufficient for top surface <NUM> of inset <NUM> to be planar with top surface <NUM> of bracket <NUM>. It should be appreciated, however, that the depth of slot <NUM>, <NUM> may be larger or smaller than described above such that insert <NUM> is set further within cavity <NUM> or extends past the edges of cavity <NUM>.

Insert <NUM> may further include at least one attachment feature to capture medical devices. Insert <NUM> may feature variously sized U-shaped or partially U-shaped cavities <NUM> fabricated within. U-shaped cavity <NUM> are defined by sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> and base <NUM>. The dimensions of U-shaped cavity <NUM> may be altered to accommodate a variously-sized medical devices. U-shaped cavity <NUM> may capture the exterior surface of a reusable medical device for retention to a tray. U-shaped cavity <NUM> may be used to capture the handle of a reusable medical device (not shown). Conversely, U-shaped cavity <NUM> may be used to capture the tool portion of a reusable medical device (not shown). Insert <NUM> may include at least one U-shaped cavity <NUM>, however, the quantity of cavities <NUM> is merely limited by the dimensions of insert <NUM>.

Although described as U-shaped cavities, it is appreciated that additional designs may be used, for example, substantially quadrilateral (e.g., square, rectangular, diamond). Further, the cavities included within bracket <NUM> and/or insert <NUM> are not limited to one dimension and each cavity may be a different dimension, depending on the desired medical device. In another embodiment, the disclosed cavities may be located at different positions (e.g., planes, heights) within bracket <NUM> and insert <NUM>. For example, when fully assembled with medical devices, various medical devices may be located at different heights within bracket <NUM> and insert <NUM>. Specifically, one medical device may be located at a first height, a second medical device may be located at a second height, and a third medical device may be located at a third height, and so on, wherein the first height is closer to top surface <NUM>, <NUM> of bracket <NUM>/insert <NUM> than the second and third heights.

Insert <NUM> may be assembled with bracket <NUM> in a semi-permanent configuration. In an exemplary embodiment, insert <NUM> is assembled with bracket <NUM> such that slot <NUM> directly/indirectly engages with cavity base <NUM> and slot <NUM> directly/indirectly engages with cavity side <NUM>. Particularly, the portion of slot <NUM> that is closest to bottom surface <NUM> may be insert into cavity <NUM>, wherein slot <NUM> engages with cavity sidewalls <NUM>. Insert <NUM> may be slid along cavity sidewalls <NUM>, wherein slot <NUM> maintains at least partial contact with cavity sidewalls <NUM>, until bottom surface (not shown) of slot <NUM> at least partially interfaces with cavity bottom <NUM>. As depicted in <FIG>, top surface <NUM> of insert <NUM> may be substantially coplanar with top surface <NUM> of bracket <NUM>. However, as discussed above, top surfaces <NUM> and <NUM> do not have to align for insert <NUM> to be correctly and fully assembled.

The disclosed posts/partitions (e.g., dividers/brackets), i.e., tray components, may be fabricated from a material that is impervious to the harsh conditions of central sterile processing processes. However, materials that are not impervious to the conditions of central sterile processing processes may be coated so as to make them resistant, i.e., able to withstand sterilization conditions (e.g., coating, anodizing, and/or plating). The disclosed tray components may be fabricated from plastic, silicone, or metal (e.g., aluminum). In an exemplary embodiment, tray components may be fabricated from a thermoplastic, e.g., Radel® (Solvay S. , Brussels, Belgium, Tecapro® (Ensinger GmbH, Nufringen, Germany), and Propylux® (Westlake Plastics, Lenni, Pennsylvania).

The disclosed tray components may be color-coded and/or include other indicia so as to quickly notify a user specific information about the reusable medical device/instrument. In one example, since a surgery may include several trays of surgical reusable medical devices, a color may signify a specific step in the surgical process, e.g., blue refers to the first step in a surgery, green refers to the second, and so on. In another example, the color of the bracket may refer to a specific reusable medical device, e.g., pink refers to a driver, yellow refers to a scissors, and so on. For purposes of the foregoing color-coded examples, alternative indicia may be employed, e.g., numerical indicia imprinted on the brackets, coded-protuberances, lettering, or other physical indicia formed on or mounted to the tray components, or the like.

In another exemplary embodiment, at least one tray component may include at least one feature to track a reusable medical device/instrument and notify a user of an event, e.g., embedded electrical connection. In one example, when a conductive portion (or feature) of a reusable medical device/instrument makes contact with the embedded electrical connection, the circuit may be completed and information specific to that reusable medical device/instrument may be transferred to a user. For example, a reusable medical device/instrument may have specific electrical characteristics such that a disclosed tray component may be adapted to track the presence/absence of the reusable medical device/instrument. In such case, when the reusable medical device/instrument is removed from the at least one tray component, a signal may be sent to a processor/recording software to notify that such reusable medical device/instrument has been removed. The disclosed tracking functionality may assist in compliance with Unique Device Identification ("UDI") protocols, currently in development with the U. Food & Drug Administration. In another example, the disclosed tray component may include inscribed identification reading capabilities, e.g., QR code or barcode, so as to "read" the presence of a reusable medical device/instrument that is outfitted with an inscribed identification feature. The disclosed inscribed identification feature may include information about a surgery, a patient, a hospital, and the like, among other important identification information.

With reference to <FIG>, tray assembly <NUM> advantageously depicts a potential layout of various post and post and partition assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> mounted in relation to tray <NUM>. The interface between post and post and partition assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and tray <NUM> was discussed with reference to post <NUM>. Of note, although assembly <NUM> depicts a layout of various post and post and partition assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, the layout is merely illustrative of one potential surgical procedure and does not limit the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, the quantity and placement of post and post and partition assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and those variations not depicted but previously referenced, may vary without departing from the spirit/scope of this disclosure.

With reference to <FIG> tray <NUM> includes base <NUM> and sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM>. Sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> extend perpendicularly from base <NUM> thereby defining inside volume <NUM> of tray <NUM>. Inside volume <NUM> may vary depending on the dimensions of tray <NUM>. Any dimensions discussed in this disclosure are merely for facilitating discussion and are not meant to be limiting. Sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> may be fabricated with base <NUM> or may be separate components that are directly or indirectly attached to base <NUM>. Sidewalls may be at a height that is taller than tray components installed within tray <NUM>. Base <NUM> may further include features, e.g., feet, (not shown) that may raise base <NUM> some distance away from a working surface. The quantity of feet (not shown) may vary depending on the intended design, but enough feet (not shown) should be used to ensure assembly <NUM> is even and steady. Feet (not shown) may be fabricated with base <NUM> or may be separate components that are directly or indirectly attached to base <NUM>. In one example, feet (not shown) are installed beneath base <NUM> by a fastener (e.g., screw, pin, rivet, etc.) or other conventional attachment methods (e.g., welding).

Base <NUM>, sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM>, and feet (not shown) may be fabricated from a material selected from metal, silicone, plastic (e.g., thermoplastic), as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For those applications where tray <NUM> will be exposed to harsh conditions, e.g., an autoclave, materials that can withstand increased heat, humidity, and pressure should be used. However, for those materials that cannot withstand those conditions, a coating should be applied, e.g., anodized coating on metal surfaces. Sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> may be attached using conventional attachment methods that are consistent with the material of base <NUM> and sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM>, e.g., welding, mechanical attachment, adhesives, fasteners, or a combination thereof.

Sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> may be substantially planar or may further include feature(s) that cause sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> to be nonplanar. The noted feature(s) may be fabricated within or associated with sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> and may extend outwardly or inwardly of inside volume <NUM> of tray <NUM>. In an exemplary embodiment, tray <NUM> includes handle <NUM>, integrated within one or both sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM>. Tray <NUM> may further include identifying information. The information may include surgery number, patient name, reusable medical devices included within tray <NUM>, hospital name, doctor name, among others, as will be known to one skilled in the art.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, tray <NUM> may further include features for stacking additional trays <NUM>. Trays <NUM> may be stacked so that each base <NUM> is parallel with each base <NUM> above or below. The disclosed features may be incorporated within sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, tabs (not shown) may be incorporated in sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> for engagement with base <NUM> of tray <NUM> stacked above. Specifically, tabs (not shown) may engage with perforations <NUM> of base <NUM>. Further, when two or more trays <NUM> are stacked, with the lowest tray referenced as "A" and the tray above referenced as "B", and so on (C, D,. X), base <NUM> of tray B may be used as the cover of tray A, and so on for each stacked tray. The top tray X may have a cover, as described below.

Tray <NUM> may further include a plurality of perforations <NUM>, as mentioned above. Perforations <NUM> may be located on base <NUM>, sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or cover (not shown). In exemplary embodiments, perforations are quadrilateral (e.g., square, rectangle, diamond) in geometry. Perforations <NUM> may be used to expose the contents of tray <NUM> to perioperative and central sterile processing process and/or for retention of tray component assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. However, perforations <NUM> may have additional uses without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Perforations <NUM> may further be aligned in a grid-based pattern to facilitate ease of bracket positioning, wherein perforations <NUM> may be of even distance between adjacent perforations <NUM>. In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of perforations <NUM> are square in shape and are located on base <NUM> and sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM>, in a grid-based pattern. Such grid-based pattern enables consistent and easily locatable positions for modular bracket assemblies, as discussed below.

Tray <NUM> may further include unique characters, e.g., alphanumeric characters, to signify horizontal and vertical perforations <NUM> for ease of bracket positioning. In one example, horizontal perforations <NUM> may be referenced by letters (e.g., A, B, C. etc.) and vertical perforations <NUM> may be referenced by numbers (e.g.,. <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. In another example, horizontal perforations <NUM> may be referenced by numbers (e.g.,. <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. etc.) and vertical perforations <NUM> may be referenced by letters (e.g., A, B, C. Regardless of character choice, horizontal and vertical perforations <NUM> may be the same or different character type, thereby creating a coordinate system for pinpointing a specific perforation, or series of perforations, on a grid. In doing so, the location of one or more tray component assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> will easily be determined. The above-described characters may be inscribed on base <NUM>, adjacent to the outermost horizontal and vertical row/column of perforations <NUM> of tray <NUM> (or sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM>, or cover). Such positioning capabilities may be useful for a medical professional to quickly locate a reusable medical device during surgery and/or during inventory storage (and for access/location thereof).

Assembly <NUM> may further include a cover (not shown) to encase the components housed within tray <NUM>. In one example, the disclosed cover may be a separate component of tray <NUM> that is entirely removable and is in contact with sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM>. In another example, the disclosed cover is hingedly attached to tray <NUM> such that the contents housed within tray <NUM> are accessible when said cover is open, but, when open, the cover continues to remain at least partially in contact with tray <NUM>. The disclosed cover may be removable from tray <NUM> by removing at least a portion of the hinges. The disclosed cover may include perforations, as described above, and may further include brackets for retention of reusable medical devices. In an exemplary embodiment, the disclosed cover includes features that enable stacking of additional trays. Features may be incorporated into the exterior of cover (not shown) that capture feet (not shown), for example, indentations or clips.

As mentioned above, post and post and partition assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, among others, may be directly or indirectly mounted in relation to tray <NUM>. In an exemplary embodiment, post and post and partition assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, among others, may be mounted in relation to perforations <NUM> of base <NUM>. The disclosed attachment may be accomplished, for example, by post <NUM>, depicted in <FIG>, and more specifically, by clip <NUM>. As mentioned above, clip <NUM> may be fabricated with post <NUM> or may be a separate component that is associated with any modular post/partition (e.g., divider/bracket) system, disclosed herein, or other partition design.

As previously discussed, partition (e.g., divider) <NUM> may be positioned to form a containment area and/or separate one area from another. As depicted in <FIG>, four partitions (e.g., dividers) <NUM> are positioned between four posts <NUM>, as explained above, to form a containment area. Containment area, as depicted, forms volume <NUM>, the quantity of which is dependent on the size dividers <NUM> and location of posts <NUM> in relation to the tray. Although depicted as four dividers <NUM>, at least one of divider <NUM> may be substituted with at least one bracket.

Claim 1:
A modular post assembly (<NUM>), comprising:
a first post (<NUM>) that defines a top surface (<NUM>) and a side face (<NUM>, <NUM>), the first post (<NUM>) further defining (i) an elongated slot (<NUM>) that extends along and opens outwardly relative to the side face (<NUM>, <NUM>), and (ii) a hole (<NUM>) that extends downward from the top surface (<NUM>) and is positioned inward of the elongated slot (<NUM>);
a partition (<NUM>) detachably mounted relative to the first post (<NUM>), the partition (<NUM>) including a partition body and an engagement hook (<NUM>) extending from an end surface of the partition body;
wherein when the partition (<NUM>) is detachably secured relative to the first post (<NUM>), the engagement hook (<NUM>) of the partition is secured within the hole of the first post (<NUM>) and the end surface of the partition (<NUM>) is positioned within the elongated slot (<NUM>) of the first post (<NUM>);
wherein the first post (<NUM>) defines four side faces and wherein each of the four side faces defines an elongated slot that extends along and opens outwardly relative to the side face;
wherein in addition to the partition (<NUM>), the modular post assembly (<NUM>) further comprises three additional partitions that are detachably mounted with respect to the first post (<NUM>), each of the three additional partitions (<NUM>) also including a partition body and an engagement hook (<NUM>) extending from an end surface of the partition body; and
wherein when each of the three additional partitions (<NUM>) is detachably secured relative to the first post (<NUM>), the engagement hook (<NUM>) of each such additional partition is secured within the hole (<NUM>) of the first post (<NUM>) and the end surface of each such additional partition (<NUM>) is positioned within an elongated slot (<NUM>) of the first post (<NUM>).