Patent ID: 8241587

Claim:
A single-use, rigid container for use in sterilization of medical instruments, the container comprising: a tray comprising a plurality of rigid sides, a base and a rim, each side comprising at least one seam defined therein, the at least one seam being adapted to allow each side to be folded into an upright position for use and unfolded into a collapsed position before or after use, wherein the tray is formed of a substantially transparent material adapted to withstand exposure to steam and ethylene oxide sterilization without degradation of the tray; a lid comprising a top side, a bottom side, a peripheral portion, and a central portion, wherein the peripheral portion of the lid comprises a locking mechanism that engages the rim, the peripheral portion being adapted to fixedly engage the rim of the tray, wherein the lid comprises at least one opening therein and wherein the central portion is defined by a frangible region comprising a plurality of frangible elements, the central portion further comprising a means for removal of the central portion by activation of the frangible region; and a filter positioned in communication with a side of the lid wherein the locking mechanism comprises a cantilevered projection.