HK1234491B - Interchangeable test element retainers - Google Patents

Description

Interchangeable test element holders

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/008,152, filed June 5, 2014, which is incorporated herein by reference as if set forth in its entirety.

Technical Field

This patent application relates generally to engineering and medical diagnostics, and more particularly, to exchangeable inserts for vertically oriented test elements within storage containers.

Background Art

Systems, devices and methods for measuring biological fluids and test elements therefor are well known. Typically, the test element is stored in a storage container different from the tester for analyzing the biological fluid sample. In some systems, the test element is first removed from the storage container, the biological fluid sample is then deposited onto the area of the test element, and the test element is inserted into the tester to analyze the analyte of interest. After the analysis is complete, the test element is removed from the tester and disposed of.

Some known storage containers are designed and constructed to store a specific number of test elements of a single size, or use interchangeable inserts for different test elements, both of which have disadvantages. For example, storage containers designed and constructed to store a specific number of test elements of a single size can result in increased manufacturing and inventory costs for the containers. In addition, some known interchangeable inserts for such storage containers are prone to cumbersome loading or dislodging of the inserts if the storage container is dropped or otherwise impacted. Dislodging of the inserts can lead to unintentional or accidental spillage of the test elements, which can result in contamination and unreliability of the test elements. In addition, partially displaced inserts can adversely affect the end user's perceived quality of the storage container with interchangeable inserts.

With some known storage containers, when a user uses and disposes of a certain amount of test elements, the remaining test elements may slide further into the insert, which does not allow the user to easily access and remove individual test elements. Given the impact on accurate recording, reporting, and analysis of biological fluid samples, it is desirable to improve storage containers for storing and dispensing test elements for analyzing biological fluid samples.

Summary of the Invention

Briefly, the inventive concepts described herein include providing an interchangeable insert for a test element having improved insert retention within a storage container and improved vertically oriented test element retention. The inventive concepts are achieved by providing the insert with a resilient retaining protrusion that can frictionally engage the storage container so as to releasably couple the insert to the storage container. Additionally, the insert can include a retainer element for helping to maintain the vertical orientation of the test element. Thus, the inventive concepts are embodied in the exemplary systems, devices, apparatus, storage containers, and interchangeable inserts described herein.

For example, an insert is provided for a storage container configured to receive a plurality of vertically oriented items. The insert includes a body having a base, an upper surface having an upper opening, and an upright tubular sidewall extending between the base and the upper surface. The base and the tubular sidewall together define an interior space. The tubular sidewall includes an inner surface and an outer surface. The insert also includes a pair of elastic retaining protrusions extending laterally from the outer surface of the tubular sidewall. The retaining protrusions are configured to frictionally engage the storage container so as to releasably couple the insert to the storage container. In addition, the insert can include a first vent opening extending through the tubular sidewall, through which air can enter the interior space of the body.

Additionally or alternatively, an insert is provided for a storage container configured to receive a plurality of vertically oriented items. The insert includes a first side and a second side hingedly coupled together. Each of the first side and the second side has a base, an upper surface having an upper opening, and an upright tubular sidewall extending between the base and the upper surface, wherein the tubular sidewall has an inner surface and an outer surface. Each of the first side and the second side has a lip coupled to the outer surface of the tubular sidewall, the lip being separated from the upper surface. The first side and the second side are movable between a closed configuration in which the first side and the second side are in face-to-face contact and an open configuration in which the first side and the second side are separated. The insert also includes a capture member coupled to one of the first side and the second side. The capture member extends between the upper surface and the lip and defines a capture opening. The insert also includes a latch member coupled to the outer surface of the tubular sidewall of the other of the first side and the second side. The insert also includes a living hinge coupled between the first side and the second side to enable the first side and the second side to rotate into face-to-face contact. When the insert is in the closed configuration, the latch member extends through the catch opening and engages the catch member. As described above, the insert can also include a pair of resilient retaining protrusions for frictionally retaining the insert in the storage container, as described above.

These and other advantages, effects, features and objects of the present invention will become better understood through the following description.In the description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof and in which are shown by way of illustration and not limitation, embodiments of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Advantages, effects, features and objects other than those described above will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description, which makes reference to the following drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary storage container.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the storage container shown in FIG. 1 .

3 is a perspective view of a housing that can be used with the storage container shown in FIG. 1 .

4 is a perspective view of an interchangeable insert that can be used with the storage container shown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 5 is a side view of the insert shown in FIG. 4 .

FIG. 6 is an end view of the insert shown in FIG. 4 .

7 is a cross-sectional view of the insert shown in FIG. 4 taken along line 7 - 7 in FIG. 4 .

8 is a cross-sectional view of the insert shown in FIG. 4 taken along line 8 - 8 in FIG. 4 .

9 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a retainer element and securing tabs that can be used with the insert shown in FIG. 4 .

10 is a plan view of the insert shown in FIG. 4 , illustrating the insert rotated about the hinge to a substantially flat position.

11 is a cross-sectional view of the storage container shown in FIG. 1 in a closed position, taken along line 11 - 11 in FIG. 1 .

12 is a perspective view of an alternative insert that can be used with the storage container shown in FIG. 1 .

13 is a cross-sectional view of the insert shown in FIG. 12 taken along line 13 - 13 in FIG. 12 .

Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

Although the present invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, exemplary embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the accompanying drawings and described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the subsequent description of the exemplary embodiments is not intended to limit the present invention to the specific forms disclosed, but rather that the present invention will cover all advantages, effects, features, and purposes that fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the embodiments described herein and the appended claims. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should be interpreted with reference to the embodiments described herein and the appended claims. Therefore, it should be noted that the embodiments described herein may have advantages, effects, features, and purposes that are useful in solving other problems.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Overview

Systems, devices, apparatuses, storage containers, and interchangeable inserts will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the present inventive concepts are shown. Indeed, these systems, devices, apparatuses, storage containers, and interchangeable inserts may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements.

Likewise, many modifications and other embodiments of the systems, devices, apparatuses, storage containers, and interchangeable inserts described herein will come to mind to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the systems, devices, apparatuses, storage containers, and interchangeable inserts described herein are not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the systems, apparatus, devices, storage containers, and interchangeable inserts, the preferred methods and materials are described herein.

Furthermore, referring to an element by the indefinite article "a," "an," or "an" does not exclude the presence of more than one element, unless the context clearly requires the presence of one and only one element. Thus, the indefinite article "a," "an," or "an" generally means "at least one." Similarly, the terms "having," "including," or "comprising," or any of their grammatical variations, are used in a non-exclusive manner. Thus, these terms can indicate a situation in which, apart from the features introduced by these terms, no further features are present in the entity described in this context, and can indicate a situation in which one or more further features are present. For example, the expressions "A has B," "A includes B," and "A contains B" can indicate a situation in which, apart from B, no further elements are present in A (i.e., a situation in which A consists solely and exclusively of B), or can indicate a situation in which, apart from B, one or more further elements are present in A, such as element C, elements C and D, or even further elements.

Furthermore, approximating language, as used herein and in the claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that can permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Thus, values modified by terms such as "about," "approximately," and "substantially" should not be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some cases, approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument used to measure a value. Likewise, range limitations may be combined or interchanged; unless context or language dictates otherwise, such ranges are identified and include all subranges contained therein.

For example, as used herein, "about" refers to within a statistically significant range of one or more values, for example, one or more values such as described concentration, length, width, height, weight, pH, timeframe, temperature, or volume. Such a value or range can be within an order of magnitude of a given value or range, typically within 20%, more typically within 10%, and even more typically within 5% of a given value or range. The permissible variation encompassed by "about" will depend on the particular system under investigation and can be readily understood by those skilled in the art.

These systems, devices, apparatus, storage containers and interchangeable inserts are useful in a variety of applications. For example, interchangeable inserts can be used to hold multiple vertically oriented test elements. Because the inserts frictionally engage the surface of the storage container, they can be easily removed when no test elements remain. Advantageously, inserts with the same or different numbers of test elements and test elements of the same or different sizes/shapes can be used interchangeably.

Storage containers and interchangeable inserts

FIG1 is a perspective view of an exemplary storage container 10. FIG2 is an exploded perspective view of the storage container 10 shown in FIG1. In an exemplary embodiment, the storage container 10 is configured to hold a plurality of items 16, such as test elements. The storage container 10 extends along a central longitudinal axis L and includes a shell 12 and an interchangeable insert 14 located within the interior volume of the shell 12. The insert 14 is configured to hold the test element 16 therein. In an exemplary embodiment, the shell 12 and the insert 14 can each be made of a polymer or plastic material including, for example, polypropylene or polyethylene. Alternatively, the shell 12 and the insert 14 can be made of any other suitable material that enables the shell 12 and the insert 14 to function as described herein, including but not limited to composite materials or metal materials. It should also be understood that the shell 12 and the insert 14 can be made of any one or more desired colors and can be transparent, translucent or opaque.

Optionally, a desiccant 13 can be used in conjunction with the storage container 10 (and/or insert 14) to facilitate reducing humidity or moisture within the interior area of the storage container 10. Excess humidity or moisture within the storage container 10 can adversely affect the integrity of the test element 16. More specifically, the desiccant 13 can be incorporated directly into the housing 12 of the storage container 10, or can be disposed anywhere within the interior space of the housing 12.

In some cases, one or more portions of the housing 12 and/or insert 14 may be formed partially or completely from an injection moldable desiccant material. For example, one or more walls of the housing 12 and/or insert 14 may be formed from a desiccant-entrained polymer material, but other suitable configurations and materials are also contemplated. In other cases, the desiccant 13 can be a separate component placed within the interior space 36 of the housing 12, such as a desiccant bag, a desiccant canister, a desiccant pellet, a granular desiccant material, or other element or structure that includes a desiccant material. Alternatively or additionally, other types and compositions of desiccants are contemplated for use with the storage container 10, including but not limited to porous paper, cellulose fibers, desiccant-entrained polymers, porous plastics, molecular sieves, silica gel, clay, starch, calcium sulfate, calcium oxide, calcium chloride, and the like, and combinations thereof.

In the exemplary embodiment, the test element 16 has a substantially rectangular shape and includes an end edge 18 and an opposite end edge 20 separated from the end edge 18 by a length Ls. In addition, each of the test elements 16 includes a side edge 22 and an opposite side edge 24 separated from the side edge 22 by a width Ws. Alternatively, the test element 16 may have any other suitable shape and configuration that enables the storage container 10 to function as described herein. In the exemplary embodiment, the test element 16 is a biosensor test strip that is configured to measure the blood glucose level in a body fluid sample, such as blood, when used in conjunction with a blood glucose meter (not shown) or other suitable measuring device or system. Alternatively, the test element 16 may be a test element of any type or configuration that enables the storage container 10 to function as described herein. In addition, the storage container 10 may be used to store other types of analytical elements, diagnostic devices, or other medical or pharmacological devices.

In an exemplary embodiment, the interchangeable insert 14 is releasably coupled to the housing 12. It should be understood that various types, sizes, and configurations of inserts 14 can therefore be used interchangeably with the housing 12 to accommodate a variety of types, sizes, and configurations of test elements 16. One advantage of the interchangeable configuration of the storage container 10 and insert 14 is that manufacturing costs and inventory levels can be reduced because one type or size of housing 12 can be used in conjunction with several types or sizes of inserts 14. The insert 14 can be provided as a disposable component that is discarded when the insert 14 no longer contains any test elements 16. A new insert 14 containing a new set of test elements 16 can be positioned within the housing 12. Alternatively, the insert 14 can be refilled with a new set of test elements 16.

FIG3 is a perspective view of a housing 12 that can be used with the storage container 10 shown in FIG1 . The housing 12 has a height extending along a longitudinal axis L and generally includes a body 26 and a removable cap 50 (broadly speaking, a closure) rotatably attached to the body 26. The body 26 has a lower end 28 and an upper end 30. The body 26 includes a substantially flat base or bottom wall 32 adjacent to the lower end 28. A tubular sidewall 34 extends upwardly from the bottom wall 32 toward the upper end 30 along the longitudinal axis L, thereby defining a top edge 35. The bottom wall 32 and the sidewall 34 together define a tubular structure having an upper opening 38 and an interior space 36. In one suitable embodiment, the body 26 also includes a shoulder or lip 40 extending substantially perpendicularly outwardly from the sidewall 34. The lip 40 is positioned generally adjacent to the upper opening 38 and is configured to engage with the cap 50. In the exemplary embodiment, the cap 50 is configured to close the upper opening 38.

In some cases, the body 26 may include one or more sealing members (not shown), such as gaskets, O-rings, or sealable foils, located on or adjacent to the top edge 35, lip 40, or along the bottom of the cap 50 to provide a sealing engagement between the body 26 and the cap 50. These sealing members can establish a seal between the body 26 and the cap 50 to prevent moisture or contents from entering the interior area of the storage container 10, or provide a seal to isolate the test element 16 from the external environment. The sealing member (not shown) can be made of materials including, but not limited to, rubber, plastic, polymer, synthetic material, or metallic material.

In the exemplary embodiment, the body 26 is substantially oval and includes an elongated dimension (i.e., length) extending along a primary transverse axis T1 from a front portion 42 to a rear portion 44 of the housing 12. The body 26 also includes a transverse dimension (i.e., width) extending along a secondary transverse axis T2 from a first side portion 46 to an opposing second side portion 48 of the body 26. In the exemplary embodiment, the primary transverse axis T1 and the secondary transverse axis T2 intersect each other at a central longitudinal axis L. Alternatively, the body 26 may be formed in other shapes, including, but not limited to, a rectangular cross-section, a curved cross-section, a polygonal cross-section, a circular cross-section, a square cross-section, or any other suitable cross-sectional shape that enables the housing 12 to function as described herein. Furthermore, the body 26 has a first height H1 adjacent to the front portion 42 and a second height H2 adjacent to the rear portion 44, thereby providing the body 26 of the housing 12 with a varying height dimension. Alternatively, the body 26 may be formed with a substantially uniform height.

In the exemplary embodiment, the removable cap 50 has a lower end 52 and an upper end 54. The cap 50 has a substantially flat upper wall 56 adjacent the end 54. A tubular sidewall 60 extends from the upper wall 56 toward the lower end 52, thereby defining a bottom edge 61. The upper wall 56 and the sidewall 60 together define a tubular structure having an interior space 62 and a lower cap opening 64. In one suitable embodiment, the cap 50 can include an inner shoulder or lip (not shown) extending annularly around the inner surface of the sidewall 60 adjacent the lower cap opening 64 to engage the top edge 35 of the body 26. In the exemplary embodiment, the cap 50 is configured to close the upper opening 38 of the body 26.

In some cases, the cap 50 may include one or more sealing members (not shown), such as gaskets, O-rings, or sealable foils, located on or adjacent the bottom edge 61 (or inner shoulder or lip) to provide a sealing engagement between the body 26 and the cap 50. The sealing members may be made of materials including, but not limited to, rubber, plastic, polymers, composite materials, metallic materials, or combinations thereof.

In an exemplary embodiment, the cap 50 is suitably positionable between a closed position (not shown) and an open position ( FIG. 3 ), in which the interior space 36 of the body 26 is accessible. More specifically, the exemplary cap 50 is hingedly connected to the rear portion 44 of the body 26 , and in particular, to the lip 40 , for hinged movement relative to the lip 40 and, more preferably, the body 26 , between its closed and open positions. For example, as seen in FIG. 3 , the cap 50 may be hingedly connected to the lip 40 by a "living hinge" 66 , wherein the cap 50 is integrally formed (e.g., molded) with the lip 40 along a thin or scored connecting web that is sufficiently flexible to permit hinged movement of the cap relative to the lip 40. However, it should be understood that the cap 50 may be formed separately from the body 26 and mechanically hinged to the body 26 via a suitable hinge mechanism (not shown) without departing from the scope of the present invention. The hinge 66 enables the cap 50 to pivot relative to the body 26 about a pivot axis P between the open and closed positions.

In the exemplary embodiment, the pivot axis P is arranged generally parallel to the minor transverse axis T2 of the body 26. Alternatively, the pivot axis P may be arranged generally parallel to the major transverse axis T1 of the body 26, or may be arranged at an oblique angle relative to the major transverse axis T1 or the minor transverse axis T2. It is contemplated that the cap 50 can be attached to the body 26 using other suitable attachment techniques, or can be separated from the body 26 until fully engaged with the body 26 in the closed position. When the cap 50 is in the open position ( FIG. 3 ), the upper opening 38 is unobstructed to provide access to the test element 16 ( FIG. 1 ) contained therein. When the cap 50 is in the closed position (not shown), the upper opening 38 is covered or sealed to protect and retain the test element 16 within the storage container 10 or to prevent moisture or contaminants from entering the storage container 10.

In the exemplary embodiment, cap 50 is substantially oval and substantially corresponds to the oval shape of body 26. Alternatively, cap 50 may be made in other shapes, including but not limited to a rectangular cross-section, a curved cross-section, a polygonal cross-section, a circular cross-section, a square cross-section, or any other suitable cross-sectional shape that enables housing 12 to function as described herein. Cap 50 has a first height adjacent to front portion 53 and a second height adjacent to rear portion 58, wherein the second height is less than the first height to provide cap 50 with a varying cap height. Alternatively, cap 50 may be made with a substantially uniform height.

In an exemplary embodiment, when the cap 50 is in a closed position (not shown) and engaged with the body 26, the varying height of the cap 50 cooperates with the varying height of the body 26 to provide a substantially uniform overall height for the housing 12. In some cases, the body 26 and the cap 50 are provided with engagement features (not shown) that are configured to cooperate with each other to releasably couple the cap 50 in the closed position (not shown). For example, the body 26 and the cap 50 may include detent features, interlocking features, snap features, or fastening features (not shown) that releasably couple the cap 50 in the closed position (not shown) relative to the body 26. In other cases, the cap 50 can be configured to engage the body 26 via a threaded connection, a twist-lock connection, a bayonet lock connection, a friction fit connection, or other suitable engagement arrangement (not shown). In still other cases, the cap 50 may be provided with a passageway (not shown) extending therethrough and communicating with the interior space 36 of the body 26, and a closure member (not shown) that cooperates with the passageway to enable one or more of the test elements 16 to be removed from the interior space 36 without detaching the cap 50 from the body 26. The closure member (not shown) may be in the form of a plug, valve or other suitable closable access device (not shown).

FIG4 is a perspective view of an exemplary interchangeable insert 14 that can be used with the storage container 10 shown in FIG1 . FIG5 is a side view of the insert 14, and FIG6 is an end view of the insert 14. Additionally, FIG7 is a cross-sectional view of the insert 14 taken along section line 7-7, and FIG8 is a cross-sectional view of the insert 14 taken along section line 8-8, each section line being shown in FIG4 . Referring to FIG4-8 , in an exemplary embodiment, the insert 14 is configured for interchangeable engagement with the housing 12. The insert 14 includes a body 70 having a lower end 72 and an upper end 74. The body 70 includes an interior space 76 that is configured to receive and retain one or more test elements 16 (see FIG1 ) therein.

The body 70 also includes a substantially planar base or bottom wall 78 having an inner surface 80 and an outer surface 82. Located within the interior space 76 and spaced upwardly and substantially parallel to the bottom wall 78 is a bottom plate 110 configured to engage the end edge 20 of the test element 16. The bottom plate 110 can be spaced from the bottom wall 78 at various predetermined distances within the interior space 76 based on the length Ls of the test element 16 to position the test element 16 for relatively easy removal from the insert 14. It is contemplated that the bottom plate 110 can be omitted from the body 70 and that the bottom wall 78 can be used to engage the end edge 20 of the test element 16.

In the exemplary embodiment, the body 70 further includes an upstanding tubular sidewall 84 that extends substantially axially along the longitudinal axis L from the bottom wall 78 toward the upper end 74, terminating at a top or upper surface 86. The bottom wall 78 and the sidewall 84 together define a tubular configuration having the interior space 76 and an upper opening 88 at the upper surface 86. In the exemplary embodiment, the shape of the upper opening 88 substantially corresponds to the shape of the tubular sidewall 84, thereby having a generally rectangular tubular shape with its inner edge connected to the inner surface 100 of the tubular sidewall 84. Alternatively, the upper opening 88 can have any shape that enables the insert 14 to function as described herein.

In the exemplary embodiment, the upper surface 86 of the insert 14 includes an outwardly extending annular flange having a perimeter that is substantially elliptical and substantially corresponds to the elliptical shape of the main body 26 of the housing 12. The insert 14 includes an elongated dimension (i.e., length) extending from a front portion 90 to a rear portion 92 of the insert 14 along the primary transverse axis T3. The insert 14 also includes a transverse dimension (i.e., width) extending from a first side portion 94 to an opposite second side portion 96 of the insert 14 along the secondary transverse axis T4. In the exemplary embodiment, the elongated dimension and the transverse dimension are sized to enable the insert 14 to be interchangeably inserted into the interior space 36 of the main body 26.

As shown in Figure 6, the first side portion 94 and the second side portion 96 are substantially symmetrical about the longitudinal axis L, which is substantially at the center of the insert 14 when viewed from the end. Alternatively, the insert 14 may include features and/or elements that are asymmetrical relative to each other. The terms "top", "bottom", "front", "back", "left", and "right" are used herein merely for convenience to indicate relative positional relationships. In one suitable embodiment, the first side portion 94 and the second side portion 96 are separate components that are hingedly coupled together.

Moreover, in the exemplary embodiment, the major and minor transverse axes T3, T4 of the substantially elliptical insert 14 intersect one another at the central longitudinal axis L. Alternatively, the insert 14 may be formed into other shapes, including, but not limited to, a rectangular cross-section, a curved cross-section, a polygonal cross-section, a circular cross-section, a square cross-section, or any other suitable symmetrical cross-sectional shape that enables the insert 14 to function as described herein.

In the exemplary embodiment, the insert 14 includes a substantially oval lip 108 spaced from and substantially parallel to the upper surface 86. The lip 108 is sized to substantially correspond to the oval shape of the upper surface 86 and is configured to fit within the interior space 36 of the housing 12 to facilitate properly positioning the insert 14 within the housing.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment, the insert 14 has a first height H3 adjacent to the front portion 90 of the insert 14 and a second height H4 adjacent to the rear portion 92 of the insert 14, thereby providing the insert 14 with a varying height dimension. Furthermore, the insert 14 can be provided with a height profile that generally corresponds to the height profile of the housing 12, wherein the upper surface 86 is configured to be substantially flush with the top edge 35 of the main body 26 of the housing 12 (see FIG. 1 ). Alternatively, the upper surface 86 can be configured to be recessed below the top edge 35 of the main body 26 or raised above the top edge 35 of the main body 26, or the insert 14 can be manufactured with a substantially uniform height profile that does not correspond to the height profile of the main body 26 of the housing 12.

In the exemplary embodiment, the body 70 of the insert 14 includes a pair of resilient retainer elements 98 that are offset from the upper surface 86 and within the interior space 76. Alternatively, the body 70 may include any number of retainer elements 98 that enable the insert 14 to function as described herein. In the exemplary embodiment, the retainer elements 98 extend inwardly from the inner surface 100 of the tubular sidewall 84 and laterally into the interior space 76. More specifically, the retainer elements 98 extend inwardly from the inner surfaces 100 corresponding to the first and second side portions 94, 96 of the insert 14. In the exemplary embodiment, the retainer elements 98 extend substantially the entire length of the interior space 76, from the front 90 to the rear 92 of the insert 14. Alternatively, the retainer elements 98 may extend from the front 90 toward the rear 92 to any length that enables the insert 14 to function as described herein.

Retainer element 98 is formed substantially parallel to bottom wall 78. However, it should be understood that retainer element 98 can be formed at an angle relative to bottom wall 78 (e.g., retainer element 98 can be formed substantially parallel to upper surface 86, or at any other angle that enables insert 14 to function as described herein). In the exemplary embodiment, retainer element 98 is substantially rectangular in cross-section and is configured to frictionally engage side edges 22 and 24 of test element 16 to facilitate retaining test element 16 within interior space 76 of insert 14 while providing relatively unrestricted access to test element 16. In the exemplary embodiment, retainer element 98 is made of a resilient material (e.g., an elastomeric material such as Santoprene®, commercially available from ExxonMobil, Irving, TX USA). Alternatively, retainer element 98 can be made of any other resilient or elastic material that enables insert 14 to function as described herein.

In the exemplary embodiment, the body 70 includes at least one pair of securing tabs 102 extending outwardly from an outer surface 104 of the sidewall 84. The securing tabs 102 extend outwardly in the direction of the secondary transverse axis T4 and laterally along the outer surface 104 of the sidewall 84 in the direction of the primary transverse axis T3 to engage an inner surface 106 of the housing 12 to help retain the insert 14 within the interior space 36 of the housing 12. Alternatively, the body 70 may include any number of securing tabs 102 that enables the insert 14 to function as described herein. In some cases, the securing tabs 102 are substantially centered on the body 70 between the front portion 90 and the rear portion 92 and extend laterally over a range between approximately 25% and approximately 75% of the distance between the front portion 90 and the rear portion 92. In some cases, the range can be between approximately 30% and approximately 70%, between approximately 35% and approximately 65%, between approximately 40% and approximately 60%, between approximately 45% and approximately 55%, or approximately 50%. Alternatively, the range can be from about 25% to about 30%, from about 30% to about 35%, from about 35% to about 40%, from about 40% to about 45%, from about 45% to about 50%, from about 50% to about 55%, from about 55% to about 60%, from about 60% to about 65%, from about 65% to about 70%, or from about 70% to about 75%. In other cases, the fixation tab 102 can extend laterally to any length that enables the insert 14 to function as described herein.

The retaining tab 102 is formed substantially parallel to the bottom wall 78. However, it should be understood that the retaining tab 102 can be formed at an angle relative to the bottom wall 78, for example, the retaining tab 102 can be formed substantially parallel to the upper surface 86, or at any other angle that enables the insert 14 to function as described herein. In the exemplary embodiment, the retaining tab 102 is substantially rectangular in cross-section and is configured to frictionally engage the inner surface 106 of the housing 12 to facilitate securely retaining the insert 14 within the interior space 36 of the housing 12 while providing relatively unrestricted access to the insert 14 for removal from the housing 12. In the exemplary embodiment, the retaining tab 102 is made of a resilient, elastomeric material, such as SANTOPRENE®. Alternatively, the retaining tab 102 may be made of any other resilient or elastic material that enables the insert 14 to function as described herein.

FIG9 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of one of the retainer elements 98 and securing tabs 102 used with the insert 14 shown in FIG4 . In the exemplary embodiment, each retainer element 98 includes a mounting portion 112 (see FIG4 ) that couples within a corresponding lateral slot 114 formed in the sidewall 84 of the body 70 , with a distal end or end 116 extending into the interior space 76 of the body 70 for frictionally engaging a corresponding one of the side edges 22 and 24 of the test element 16 (see FIG2 ). The distance separating the distal ends 116 of the retainer elements 98 or the angle at which the retainer elements 98 extend into the interior space 76 of the body 70 can be adjusted to accommodate test elements 16 having different widths Ws. This adjustment of the distance separating the distal ends 116 of the retainer elements 98 or the angular orientation of the retainer elements 98 can be achieved by changing the position or angular orientation of the retainer elements 98 relative to the insert 14 . Alternatively, the retainer element 98 may be removed and replaced with a retainer element having a different configuration that defines a different separation distance or angular orientation relative to the insert 14 .

Furthermore, each of the fixing tabs 102 includes a mounting portion 118 (see FIG. 4 ) that couples within a corresponding lateral slot 120 formed in the sidewall 84 of the body 70 , with distal ends or ends 122 extending outwardly away from the interior volume 76 of the body 70 for frictional engagement with the inner surface 106 (see FIG. 3 ) of the housing 12 . The distance separating the distal ends 116 of the fixing tabs 102 or the angle at which the fixing tabs 102 extend into the interior region 36 of the housing 12 can be adjusted to accommodate housings 12 having different sizes. This adjustment of the distance separating the distal ends 122 of the fixing tabs 102 or the angular orientation of the fixing tabs 102 can be achieved by changing the position or angular orientation of the fixing tabs 102 relative to the insert 14 . Alternatively, the fixing tabs 102 can be removed and replaced with fixing tabs having a different configuration that defines a different spacing distance or angular orientation relative to the insert 14 .

In an exemplary embodiment, retainer element 98 and securing tab 102 may be integrally formed, having a connecting portion 124 formed in an intermediate slot 126 (see FIG. 7 ) extending substantially upward from lateral slot 120 to lateral slot 114. Alternatively, intermediate slot 126 may be omitted from insert 14, such that retainer element 98 and securing tab 102 are formed independently of one another.

In an exemplary embodiment, the retainer element 98 and the securing tab 102 can be coupled to the body 70 via a two-shot injection molding process. Alternatively, the retainer element 98 and the securing tab 102 can be coupled to the body 70 via mechanical fastening, pinning, fusing, welding, adhesive bonding, or other suitable attachment techniques. In some cases, the retainer element 98 and the securing tab 102 can be configured to be adjustable relative to the insert 14 (e.g., adjustable in position or orientation), or configured to be detached and removed from the insert 14 so as to be replaced with a retainer element 98 and securing tab 102 of a different configuration to accommodate test elements 16 having different nominal widths Ws and housings 12 having different sizes. Although a specific configuration of the retainer element 98 and the securing tab 102 has been described, it should be understood that other configurations of the retainer element 98 and the securing tab 102, as well as other suitable techniques for attaching the retainer element 98 and the securing tab 102 to the insert 14, are also considered to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

4 and 5 , the body 70 of the insert 14 includes at least one side vent 128 formed through the side wall 84 of the insert 14 to enable air to pass from the interior space 76 of the insert 14 to the interior space 36 of the housing. In the exemplary embodiment, the insert 14 includes a pair of side vents 128 formed in the first side portion 94 that are symmetrical about the longitudinal axis L and a pair of symmetrical side vents formed in the second side portion 96 of the insert 14. Each of the side vents 128 is rectangular in shape and is formed substantially parallel to the bottom wall 78 of the insert 14 and spaced upwardly from the bottom plate 110.

In an exemplary embodiment, the insert 14 is a molded component made from two separate materials, including: a polymer or plastic material, including, for example, polypropylene or polyethylene; and an elastomeric material, such as Santoprene®. Accordingly, the features of the insert 14 described herein may have draft angles associated with each wall and/or cavity to facilitate removal of the insert 14 from the mold. The component 14 is manufactured using a two-shot injection molding process. Alternatively, the insert 14 may be manufactured by methods other than molding (e.g., machining) and, therefore, may not have draft angles associated with the features described herein. In an exemplary embodiment, to facilitate injection molding, the insert 14 is manufactured such that the first side 94 and the second side 96 are substantially symmetrical and separated from each other about a parting line that lies on a plane that coincides with the longitudinal axis L and is substantially parallel to the plane of the side view of FIG. 5 . As described above, the insert 14 may include features and/or elements that are asymmetrical relative to each other.

In one suitable embodiment, the first side portion 94 and the second side portion 96 are hingedly connected together to allow relative hinged movement therebetween. More specifically, the first side portion 94 and the second side portion 96 are hingedly connected to each other in the manner of a "living hinge" 130, wherein the first side portion 94 is integrally formed with the second side portion 96 along a thin or scored connecting plate that is sufficiently flexible to allow the first side portion 94 to hinge relative to the second side portion 96. However, it should be understood that the first side portion 94 can be formed separately from the second side portion 96 and mechanically hinged to the second side portion 96 via a suitable hinge mechanism (not shown) without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the first side portion 94 can be formed separately from the second side portion 96 and configured to snap or couple together using a suitable locking mechanism (not shown) without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG10 is a plan view of one suitable embodiment of the insert 14 in an open position, with the first side 94 and the second side 96 rotated about the hinge 130 to a substantially flat position (i.e., the first side is rotated approximately 180 degrees relative to the second side 96 about the hinge 130). With particular reference to FIG4, FIG6, and FIG10, the insert 14 includes at least one locking mechanism 132. In the exemplary embodiment, the insert 14 includes a pair of locking mechanisms 132, one located at the front 90 of the insert 14 and one located at the rear 92 of the insert 14, between the upper surface 86 and the lip 108. The locking mechanisms 132 are substantially identical, and for clarity, only one will be described below.

Each locking mechanism 132 is configured to secure the first side portion 94 to the second side portion 96 when the corresponding side portions are rotated about the hinge 130 into face-to-face contact. The locking mechanism 132 includes a generally rectangular opening 134 formed by a catch member 136 that extends between the upper surface 86 and the lip 108 and is spaced from the outer surface 104 of the sidewall 84 on the second side portion 96. Furthermore, the locking mechanism 132 includes a resilient upstanding member 138 that terminates in a latch portion 140 (broadly, a "latch member"). When in a closed position, such as shown in FIG. 6 , the upstanding member 138 is slightly biased outward and extends toward the second side portion 96 to lockably engage the catch member 136. In the exemplary embodiment, the upstanding member extends through the opening 134, and the latch 140 lockably engages the catch member 136 to releasably secure the first side portion 94 to the second side portion 96 of the insert 14.

4-6 , the insert 14 includes a pair of resilient retaining arms 142 extending outwardly and upwardly from the front and rear portions 90, 92 of the body 70. The retaining arms 142 extend outwardly beyond the perimeter of the upper surface 86 and are configured to engage the inner surface 106 of the housing 12 to help retain the insert 14 within the interior space 36 of the housing 12. Furthermore, the insert 14 includes a plurality of retaining projections 144 extending outwardly from the first side portion 94 and the second side portion 96 in the direction of the secondary transverse axis T4. The first side portion includes a first pair of retaining projections 144 located at the lower end portion 72, and the second side portion 96 includes an opposing pair of retaining projections 144 symmetrical to the first pair. The retaining projections 144 are configured to engage the interior of the housing 12 to help position and retain the insert 14 within the interior space 36 of the housing 12. It is contemplated that the retaining arms 142 and the retaining projections 144 could be omitted from the insert 14.

FIG11 is a cross-sectional view of the storage container 10 in a closed position, taken along line 11-11 shown in FIG1. In the exemplary embodiment, the insert 14 is positioned within the interior space 36 of the body 26 of the housing 12 and is configured to retain a plurality of test elements 16 therein. As described above with reference to FIGS. 4-6, the body 70 of the insert 14 includes one or more securing tabs 102 extending outwardly from an outer surface 104 of the sidewall 84 in the direction of the second transverse axis T2 for frictionally engaging an inner surface 106 of the body 26 of the housing 12 or the desiccant 13 to facilitate retaining the insert 14 within the interior space 36 of the housing 12. Furthermore, the securing tabs 102 facilitate stability of the insert 14 within the housing 12. A lip 108 of the insert 14 engages an upper edge of the desiccant 13 to facilitate vertical positioning of the insert 14 within the interior space 36 of the housing 12.

In use, a user opens the cap 50, as shown in FIG1 , and removes one of the test elements 16. The user can then close the cap 50 to retain the remaining test elements 16 within the storage container 10. Air entering the interior space of the storage container 10 is allowed to circulate through the storage container 10 by passing through the space vacated by the test strip 16 removed by the user and into the interior space 76 of the insert 14. Air is able to circulate through the interior space 76 of the insert and the interior space 36 of the housing 12 by passing through the side vents 128. This circulation of air enables the desiccant 13 to remove excess moisture or water from the air in order to maintain the integrity of the test elements 16.

FIG12 is a perspective view of an alternative insert 150 that can be used with the storage container 10 shown in FIG1. FIG13 is a cross-sectional view of the insert 150 taken along line 13-13 shown in FIG12. As shown in FIG12 and FIG13, the insert 150 is substantially the same as the insert 14 described in FIG4-10; however, the differences will be described below.

12 and 13 , insert 150 is configured for interchangeable engagement with housing 12 . Insert 150 includes a body 70 having an interior space 76 configured to receive and retain test element 16 (see FIG. 1 ) therein. Body 70 also includes a tubular sidewall 84 extending substantially axially along longitudinal axis L from bottom wall 78 toward upper end 74, terminating at a top or upper surface 152 . Bottom wall 78 and tubular sidewall 84 together define a tubular configuration having interior space 76 and an upper opening 154 at upper surface 152 .

In one suitable embodiment, upper opening 154 is substantially rectangular in shape. Alternatively, upper opening 154 can have any shape that enables insert 150 to function as described herein. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 12 , upper opening 154 has a front edge portion 156 and an opposing rear edge portion 158. Extending between front edge portion 156 and rear edge portion 158 are a first side edge portion 160 and an opposing second side edge portion 162. In the exemplary embodiment, front edge portion 156 is generally aligned with inner surface 100 of tubular sidewall 84. Furthermore, each of first side edge portion 160 and second side edge portion 162 is generally aligned with inner surface 100 of tubular sidewall 84. Rear edge portion 158 is substantially parallel to front edge portion 156 and offset therefrom by a predetermined distance D1. Predetermined distance D1 can be sized so that upper opening 154 can accommodate and securely retain a predetermined number of test elements 16.

For example, the predetermined distance D1 can be adjusted so that the insert 150 can accommodate from about 5 test elements to about 50 test elements, from about 10 test elements to about 45 test elements, from about 15 test elements to about 40 test elements, from about 20 test elements to about 35 test elements, or from about 25 test elements to about 30 test elements. Alternatively, the insert can accommodate from about 5 test elements to about 10 test elements, from about 10 test elements to about 15 test elements, from about 15 test elements to about 20 test elements, from about 20 test elements to about 25 test elements, from about 25 test elements to about 30 test elements, from about 30 test elements to about 35 test elements, from about 35 test elements to about 40 test elements, from about 40 test elements to about 45 test elements, or from about 45 test elements to about 50 test elements. Alternatively, the insert is capable of accommodating approximately 5 test elements, approximately 10 test elements, approximately 15 test elements, approximately 20 test elements, approximately 25 test elements, approximately 30 test elements, approximately 35 test elements, approximately 40 test elements, approximately 45 test elements, approximately 50 test elements, or more.

As seen in FIG. 12 , insert 150 includes a ventilation hole 164 formed through upper surface 152 adjacent upper opening 154. As shown, ventilation hole 164 is formed substantially centered on primary transverse axis T3. Alternatively, ventilation hole 164 may be formed in any portion of upper surface 152 that enables ventilation hole 164 to function as described herein. In some cases, more than one ventilation hole 164 may be formed through upper surface 152 to increase air circulation within insert 150. Ventilation hole 164 is configured to, in conjunction with lateral vents 128, circulate air through interior space 76 of insert 150, enabling interior space 76 to reach dry equilibrium soon after storage container 10 is closed. In the exemplary embodiment, ventilation hole 164 is circular. Alternatively, ventilation hole 164 may be formed in other shapes, including, but not limited to, square, rectangular slits, and the like. It is also contemplated that ventilation hole 164 may be omitted from insert 150.

13 , the body 70 of the insert 150 includes an upwardly extending support wall 166 that protrudes from the inner surface 100 of the tubular sidewall 84 into the interior space 76. The support wall 166 has a front surface 168 and a rear surface 170. The support wall 166 extends between the retainer element 98 and the securing protrusion 102 in the direction of the longitudinal axis L, such that the front surface 168 thereof is substantially vertically aligned with the rear edge portion 158 of the upper opening 154. In one suitable embodiment, the support wall 166 is offset from the base plate 110 and can be positioned at various heights within the interior space 76. Furthermore, the support wall 166 extends along a length that is less than the maximum height dimension H5 of the interior space 76. Alternatively, in other suitable embodiments, the support wall 166 can extend substantially entirely along the entire height dimension H5 of the interior space 76. The support wall 166 is configured to engage the test element 16 to maintain the test element 16 in a substantially upright orientation within the interior space 76 of the insert 150, generally parallel to the longitudinal axis L, and to prevent the test element 16 from sliding into the interior space 76 of the insert 150 when only a small amount of the test element remains in the insert. It is contemplated that the support wall 166 can be omitted from the insert 150.

In operation, the test elements 16 are positioned within the interior space 76 of the insert 150, where they are maintained in a substantially upright orientation by support walls 166 to prevent the test elements 16 from falling longitudinally into the interior space 76 as the number of test elements 16 decreases through use. Because the support walls 166 extend along less than the entire height dimension H5 of the interior space 76, the support walls 166 do not impede removal of the test elements 16 from the interior space 76 of the insert 150. The support walls 166 act as stabilizers to maintain the test elements 16 in a substantially upright orientation and in an organized arrangement within the insert 150 for presentation to a user, while facilitating relatively easy access and removal of individual test strips 16 from the insert 150.

Exemplary embodiments of interchangeable inserts for storage containers are described above in detail. The apparatus and system are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but rather, the methods and components of the system may be utilized independently and separately from other operations or components described herein. For example, the systems and apparatus described herein may have other industrial or consumer applications and are not limited to implementation using the biosensor components described herein. Rather, one or more embodiments may be implemented and utilized in conjunction with other industries.

All patents, patent applications, patent application publications, and other publications cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in their entirety.

The present inventive concept has been described in conjunction with what are presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments. However, the present inventive concept has been presented by way of illustration and is not intended to be limited to the disclosed embodiments. Therefore, those skilled in the art will recognize that the present inventive concept is intended to encompass all modifications and alternative arrangements within the spirit and scope of the present inventive concept as set forth in the appended claims. Numbered examples are provided below.

1. An insert for a storage container configured to receive a plurality of vertically oriented items, the insert comprising:

a body comprising a base, an upper surface having an upper opening, and an upstanding tubular sidewall extending between the base and the upper surface, the base and the upstanding tubular sidewall together defining an interior space, wherein the upstanding tubular sidewall comprises an inner surface and an outer surface;

a pair of resilient retaining tabs extending laterally from an outer surface of the upstanding tubular sidewall, wherein the pair of resilient retaining tabs frictionally engage the storage container to releasably couple the insert to the storage container; and

A first vent opening extends through the upstanding tubular sidewall, through which air can enter the interior space of the body.

2. The insert of embodiment 1 wherein the retaining tabs in the pair of resilient retaining tabs are oppositely oriented.

3. The insert of Example 1 or 2 further comprises a pair of elastic retainer elements extending laterally from the inner surface of the upright tubular side wall and inwardly into the interior space, wherein the pair of elastic retainer elements frictionally engage the vertically oriented article to facilitate retaining the vertically oriented article within the interior space.

4. The insert of embodiment 3, wherein the retainer elements of the pair of resilient retainer elements are oppositely oriented.

5. The insert of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the first ventilation opening comprises a pair of first ventilation openings oriented opposite to each other.

6. The insert of embodiments 1 to 5 wherein the upper surface includes an annular flange extending outwardly from the upstanding tubular sidewall, the annular flange including a substantially elliptical perimeter.

7. The insert of embodiment 6, further comprising a lip coupled to an outer surface of the upstanding tubular sidewall, the lip being spaced apart from the upper surface and comprising a substantially elliptical perimeter corresponding to the upper surface.

8. The insert of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the upper surface includes a second ventilation opening extending through the upper surface, air being able to enter the interior space of the body through the second ventilation opening.

9. The insert of embodiments 1 to 8 wherein at least a portion of the rim defining the upper opening is continuous with the inner surface of the upstanding tubular sidewall.

10. The insert of embodiment 9 wherein the entirety of the rim is connected to the inner surface of the upstanding tubular sidewall.

11. The insert of embodiment 9 wherein the body comprises a front portion, a rear portion, and laterally opposed side portions, and wherein the rim comprises a rear portion spaced inwardly from the rear portion of the body.

12. The insert of embodiment 11 further comprising a support wall having a front surface and a rear surface, the support wall extending inwardly from the inner surface of the upstanding tubular sidewall into the interior space and extending upwardly between the base and the upper surface.

13. The insert of embodiment 12, wherein the front surface of the support wall is substantially vertically aligned with the rear portion of the edge of the upper opening.

14. The insert of embodiment 12 wherein a lower end of the support wall is offset from the base and an upper end of the support wall is offset from the upper surface.

15. The insert of embodiments 1 to 14, further comprising a bottom plate disposed within the interior space and spaced apart from the base.

16. An insert substantially as herein described and illustrated.

17. An insert for a storage container configured to receive a plurality of vertically oriented items, the insert comprising:

a first side portion and a second side portion hingedly coupled together, each of the first side portion and the second side portion comprising a base portion, an upper surface, an upstanding tubular sidewall extending between the base portion and the upper surface, the upstanding tubular sidewall comprising an inner surface and an outer surface and a resilient retaining protrusion extending from the outer surface, each of the first side portion and the second side portion further comprising a lip coupled to the outer surface of the upstanding tubular sidewall, the lip being spaced apart from the upper surface, the first side portion and the second side portion being movable between a closed configuration in which the first side portion and the second side portion are in face-to-face contact and an open configuration in which the first side portion and the second side portion are rotated apart;

a capture member coupled to one of the first side portion and the second side portion, the capture member extending between the upper surface and the lip and defining a capture opening;

a latch member coupled to an outer surface of the tubular sidewall of the other of the first and second side portions, wherein the latch member extends through the capture opening and engages the capture member; and

A living hinge is coupled between the first side portion and the second side portion to enable the first side portion and the second side portion to rotate into face-to-face contact.

18. The insert of embodiment 17, wherein the latch member comprises a resilient upstanding member and a latch portion configured to engage the capture member.

19. The insert of embodiment 17 or 18, further comprising a pair of resilient retaining arms configured to facilitate retaining the insert within the storage container when the insert is in the closed configuration.

20. The insert of embodiments 17 to 19, further comprising a pair of retention tabs configured to engage an interior of the storage container to facilitate positioning and retaining the insert within the storage container when the insert is in the closed configuration.

21. The insert of Examples 17 to 20, further comprising a first capture member and a second capture member.

Claims (15)

1. An insert for configuring a storage container to receive a plurality of vertically oriented articles, the insert comprising: The body includes a base, an upper surface having an upper opening, and an upright tubular sidewall extending between the base and the upper surface, the base and the upright tubular sidewall together defining an interior space, wherein the upright tubular sidewall includes an inner surface and an outer surface. A pair of resilient retaining protrusions extending laterally from the outer surface of the upright tubular sidewall, wherein the pair of resilient retaining protrusions frictionally engage the storage container to releasably couple the insert to the storage container; and A first ventilation opening extends through the upright tubular sidewall, through which air can enter the interior space of the main body. 2. The insert as claimed in claim 1, wherein the fixing protrusions of the pair of elastic fixing protrusions are oriented in opposite directions. 3. The insert of claim 1, further comprising a pair of resilient retainer elements extending laterally from the inner surface of the upright tubular sidewall and inwardly into the interior space, wherein the pair of resilient retainer elements frictionally engage the vertically oriented article to facilitate retaining the vertically oriented article within the interior space. 4. The insert as claimed in claim 3, wherein the retainer elements of the pair of resilient retainer elements are oriented relative to each other. 5. The insert as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first ventilation opening comprises a pair of first ventilation openings oriented in opposite directions to each other. 6. The insert as claimed in claim 1, wherein the upper surface includes an annular flange extending outward from the upright tubular sidewall, the annular flange having a substantially elliptical periphery. 7. The insert of claim 6, further comprising a lip coupled to the outer surface of the upright tubular sidewall, the lip being spaced apart from the upper surface and including a substantially elliptical periphery corresponding to the upper surface. 8. The insert as claimed in claim 1, wherein the upper surface includes a second ventilation opening extending through the upper surface, through which air can enter the interior space of the body. 9. The insert as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the edge defining the upper opening is connected to the inner surface of the upright tubular sidewall. 10. The insert as claimed in claim 9, wherein the entire edge is connected to the inner surface of the upright tubular sidewall. 11. The insert as claimed in claim 9, wherein the body comprises a front portion, a rear portion and laterally opposed sides, and wherein the edge comprises a rear portion spaced inwardly from the rear portion of the body. 12. The insert of claim 11, further comprising a support wall having a front surface and a rear surface, the support wall extending inwardly from the inner surface of the upright tubular sidewall into the interior space and extending upward between the base and the upper surface. 13. The insert as claimed in claim 12, wherein the front surface of the support wall is substantially vertically aligned with the rear edge of the upper opening. 14. The insert as claimed in claim 12, wherein the lower end of the support wall is offset from the base, and the upper end of the support wall is offset from the upper surface. 15. The insert as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a base plate disposed within the internal space and spaced apart from the base.