DE19854316A1 - Container for the aids required for rapid analysis tests outside a laboratory - Google Patents

Abstract

The container (1) for a number of test aids (2), to be used in analysis operations, is divided into a number of chambers (3) sealed against steam. Each chamber (3) has a system to fix the position of the analyzing aid (2) in the chamber (3). The chamber is partially narrowed slightly to fix the analyzing aid in place within it, using one or more projections which extend into the interior of the chamber. Each chamber has only one (13) of the two openings (12,13) which allows the analyzing aid through, while the other opening (12) allows a plunger to move through to eject the contents from the chamber. Each chamber has a guide for the plunger movement. Projections (6) are at the surfaces of the container (1) which are sealed by films (5,11), to prevent contact between the films (5,11) and a laying surface. An Independent claim is included for an analysis system, where the container holds test strips (2) for the analysis of fluids. The dispenser which shrouds the container (1) has a drying agent, such as silica gel.

Description

The invention relates to a storage container made of a rigid material for two or more analytical aids, in which these are individually housed in water vapor-tight chambers can be, which are in a regular geometric arrangement to each other the, each of the chambers at least two opposite, water through a film has vapor-tightly closed openings and a desiccant The stock is in the storage container. The invention further relates to a system for vorra processing of analytical aids containing a storage container according to the invention and two or more analytical tools.

For the chemical and biochemical analysis of solid and liquid sample materials have specialized in the laboratories for this, but especially also for use outside semi-solid laboratories, rapid tests based on carriers established. Based on a specially designed developed dry chemistry are such carrier-bound rapid tests, despite the often com complex reactions involving sensitive reagents, simple and uncomplicated, even by laypeople. Most prominent example of carrier-bound rapid tests are test strips for the determination of blood glucose levels in diabetics. Likewise be Single or multi-field test strips for urine analysis and various indicator papers are known. Since, in addition to rapid tests in the form of strips (test strips), other forms of carrier-colored those who have rapid tests are more generally referred to as "analytical test elements".

Dry chemical, carrier-bound rapid tests are for sale to the end user mostly packed several times. The quick tests are usually in a first one, they are reversed directly end packaging (primary packaging), which in turn in another packaging (Secondary packaging, secondary packaging), which is usually in addition to the primary packaging Contains handling instructions for the rapid tests in the form of package inserts. The Pri Medical packaging is designed to perform the essential functions of maintaining radio tion of the chemical and biochemical components on the test element during a  longer storage time. These tasks are primarily protection from the influence of Rays of light, protection against the ingress of humidity, dirt, germs and dust, so such as protection against mechanical impairment of the test elements.

One of the most common forms of primary packaging is the presentation of loosely poured test elements in aluminum or plastic tubes through a plugs to be pressed on or screwed on are closed. The ones outlined above Primary packaging tasks are satisfactorily achieved through this tube packaging solves. Due to the laborious manual removal of the individual test elements from the Primary packaging seems to be out of date, which is why alternative packaging concepts were developed. In addition to the properties mentioned above, these also offer the possibility of automatically removing the test elements individually from the packaging and directly a measuring device, which for the measurement and subsequent evaluation of the test results nisse serves to provide.

EP-A 0 622 119 describes storage systems made of rigid, water vapor impermeable Materials for strip-shaped test elements in which the test elements are individually wrapped in foil sealed chambers are kept (individual sealing). The chambers for the test stripes - as stripe-shaped test elements are also called - have the shape of Tubes with a rectangular cross-section and are regularly aligned with one another geometrically tet, so that, for example, the shape of an essentially the storage system rectangular magazine or folding case, both with parallel to each other, in a line next to opposite chambers, or an elongated cylinder or a flat, circular gene disc with chambers grouped radially around a central axis. The test elements can be done both manually and by a mechanical device from the storage system are removed, with the test elements remaining in the storage container by the individual seal is still protected. EP-A 0 622 119 also describes the Possibility of drying agents such. B. silica gels and molecular sieves, within the chambers to provide for the test strips to absorb residual moisture, which by the manufacturing pro time the test strip is conditional or which despite the sealing and the use of what Vapor-impermeable materials have penetrated into the chambers. On one of the outside On the part of the storage system, a data carrier, such as, for. B. a label in legible script,  a bar code label or a magnetic stripe, attached, on the lot-specific Data and possibly further information on the test elements are stored in the system and are available. Part of the test storage containers described in EP-A 0 622 119 elements are for use in appropriately designed measuring systems, consisting of substantial from measuring device, storage container and test elements, suitable.

EP-A 0 732 590 and US 5,489,414 describe round, disk-shaped storage containers for Test elements for use in compact measuring devices, for example for blood sugar self-control in diabetics. The test elements are star-shaped in one Placed around the center of the pane and individually in blisters, such as are known for the individual packaging of tablets, dirt and moisture proof seals. There is a separate one for each test element in the storage container according to EP-A 0 732 590 Blister provided for a desiccant, with desiccant blister and test element blister are interconnected so that an effective dehumidification of the test element blister ge is guaranteed.

From US 5,510,226 and EP-A 0 738 666 are cylindrical, in injection molding from art fabricated test element magazines known in which the individual test elements similar to the cartridges in a revolver drum in from the base of the cylinder to ge through-going cover surface through chambers are arranged. As before Described above for EP-A 0 622 119, the test elements are here ver in parallel to each other running, elongated, tubular, arranged radially around a central longitudinal axis The chambers are individually sealed, including the circular base and lid surfaces of the zylin drischen storage container with foils, such as. B. aluminum foil are sealed. To ent remove the test elements from the magazine with a plunger through one of the sealing foils pierce and the test element to be removed from the opposite sealing film pushed into his chamber and thus used for its intended purpose. In analogy to EP-A 0 732 590 is a separate desiccant chamber for each test element chamber see that is connected to the test element chamber via a channel, so that the Testele ment chamber through which desiccant can be reliably dehumidified. Even the test element magazines from US 5,510,226 and EP-A 0 738 666 are principally for use in compact measuring devices.  

The storage containers described in the prior art have the disadvantage that the Test elements not optimal against environmental influences, especially mechanical influences protects. The blister packs described in EP-A 0 732 590 and US 5,489,414 for test elements are made of relatively thin plastic films and offer na due to insufficient protection of the test elements against mechanical damage for example by unintentionally pressing or kinking the packaging. The test elements Storage containers from US 5,510,226 and EP-A 0 738 666 offer better protection here because they are made of rigid, solid materials that at least bear pressure and buckling loads withstand better than blister packs. The mechanical weaknesses of the in US 5,510,226 and EP-A 0 738 666 each disclose drum type packaging but the sealing foils with which the base and top surface of the cylindrical drum ver are closed in order to create closed test element chambers. These sealing foils are - so that they can be easily pierced when removing the test element - in the right gel made of thin foils, such as aluminum foils, and are at unbeab Carefully dropping or carelessly placing the packaging on a surface slightly injured. Because even slight openings in the sealing foils penetrate Dust, germs and humidity in the test element chambers can be removed this seriously damages the test elements to be protected by the packaging.

Another disadvantage of the storage containers described in the prior art is that that the automatic test element removal, for example with the aid of a plunger, often increases leads to a tilting of the test elements in their chamber. The reliability of these systems the provision of test elements is therefore insufficient.

The described disadvantages of the packaging concepts for test elements essentially exist Lichen for other analytical aids, such as lancets or sampling elements. Although there are generally no sensitive Rea genes need to be protected against environmental influences, but is here also sterile To pay attention to conditions in the chambers of the storage container, not that of the ones in stock Elements become unusable after long storage.

The object of the invention is to eliminate the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular it is the object of the present invention, a compact and in large numbers Storage container for analytical aids, which can be manufactured cost-effectively, e.g. B. Testele elements, sampling elements and lancets, which the ones contained therein analytical aids safe from harmful environmental influences, such as B. Light, Moist or mechanical impact. Furthermore, the storage container in an analysis system containing a compact measuring device, the storage container and testele ment, can be integrated and a reliable, d. H. error-free removal of the analytical Tools, enable.

The invention relates to a storage container made of a rigid material for two or several analytical aids containing separate, water vapor-tight chambers in which A maximum of one aid can be accommodated, with the chambers facing each other others are in a regular geometric arrangement and each of the chambers is closed at least two opposite, each sealed with a film in a water vapor-tight manner Has openings and there is a desiccant supply in the storage container for each chamber located, characterized in that each chamber means for fixing the position of the has analytical aids in the chamber.

Under the term "analytical aids" analytical test elements, cuvettes, pipettes lancets. They are preferably analytical testels elements or lancets, particularly preferably around analytical test elements. Analytical test elements in the sense used here are test strips that can be evaluated visually or by means of optical equipment, electrochemical sensors and the like. Since such analytical tools in State of the art comprehensively described and the skilled person in a variety of Ausfüh forms are common, a detailed description is unnecessary here. For example Please refer to the following documents: German patent application file number 197 53 847.9, EP-A 0 138 152, EP-A 0 821 234; EP-A 0 821 233, EP-A 0 630 609, EP-A 0 565 970 and WO 97/02487.  

The storage container according to the invention corresponds in terms of shape, function and materials largely the state of the art. The following may be mentioned in particular: EP-A-0 622 119, EP-A- 0 738 666 and US 5,510,226. These documents are expressly referred to here.

The storage container according to the invention particularly preferably has the shape of an essentially Chen cylindrical, elongated drum in which the chambers for receiving the analytical Aids are arranged in a star shape around the longitudinal axis. The height of the drum aligns depends essentially on the length of the analytical aids to be accommodated. The Base and lid surfaces of the cylindrical container contain the openings of the Chambers that are sealed with foil. Preferably all openings closed individually and independently of one another, but only one Piece of film is used. By individual and independent locking is for it ensured that when opening a chamber, the sealing films for the remaining chambers not be damaged.

The base body of the storage container according to the invention is preferably made of one rigid, injection-molded plastic, such as. B. polyethylene or polypropylene. The film for sealing the chamber openings, which is also referred to as a sealing film, consists preferably of aluminum or an aluminum plastic laminate and is about per se known methods such as welding or gluing to the plastic base body of the storage container tightly connected. The sealing film is preferably by means of Hot melt adhesive attached to the injection molded body. To prevent adhesive residue protrude into the auxiliary chambers or protrude beyond the edge of the storage container, can in a preferred embodiment of the storage container according to the invention single or all affected edges areas for absorbing adhesive residues be provided. For example, a circumferential recess can be found on all edges affected be available to absorb adhesive residues.

Each chamber for analytical aids is an individual in the storage container according to the invention dual desiccant supply provided, which is preferably in a separate desiccant chamber is housed. In principle, all desiccants can be used as solids or pasty masses of available drying agents, in particular silica gel, molecular sieve and the like  ches more, are used. Depending on the amount of desiccant; which for dehumidification the desiccant chamber is required, the desiccant chamber is dimensioned. Desiccant chamber and auxiliary chamber are in a gas exchange enabling Contact. They are preferably connected to one another by a duct that exhausts air Exchange of the chambers and thus a dehumidification of the auxiliary chamber allows. Preferential the channel is dimensioned and geometrically designed so that the desiccant for example silica gel or molecular sieve, cannot penetrate the auxiliary chamber. If necessary, the size of the desiccant particles should be selected accordingly.

The desiccant chamber preferably contains two openings, one of which is for loading fill the chamber with desiccant (filling opening) and the other gas exchange enables contact with the chamber for the analytical device (sewer opening). While the channel opening must remain open at all times in order to dehumidify the To enable the auxiliary chamber, the filling opening can follow the desiccant chamber sealed with the filling of the desiccant. In this way, an unbeab Visible escape of the desiccant from the chamber, for example in subsequent Manufacturing or filling steps of the storage container according to the invention, who prevented the. The filling opening of the desiccant chamber can preferably be closed by Cover with cardboard, paper, plastic or metal foil. Still before is covered by a plastic or adhesive plug covering the filling opening. The filling opening of the desiccant chamber is particularly preferably closed by that with the help of a suitable tool injection molding material from the edge area of the public caulked, d. H. is displaced into the opening and so cover the opening forms.

An essential difference according to the invention to the storage containers known in the prior art Conditions for analytical aids lies in the fact that in every chamber that is ready for inclusion of a single analytical aid, means for fixing the position of the analyti aids are provided in the chamber. The fixation of the analytical auxiliary means in the chamber has surprisingly been found to be advantageous because of this an injury to the film, which closes the chambers individually in a water vapor-tight manner and thus prevents the ingress of dust, dirt and germs. At the un  intentional dropping, shaking or bumping into the storage container storage containers described in the prior art, in which the analytical auxiliary lie loose and thus movable in the chambers, for perforation of the sealing film come through the analytical tool. Safe sealing of the individual chambers during manufacture, storage, transport and use of the storage container and thus These containers provide reliable protection for the analytical aids in the chambers not guarantee. With the introduction of fixie agents according to the invention The problem of the position of the analytical aids in the respective chamber becomes solved. The fixation of the analytical device in its chamber largely prevents hend that the sealing film of the chamber by the analytical tool unintentionally by is forced.

As a means of fixing the analytical aids in a fixed position in the chamber Various configurations are possible according to the invention. In addition to the stable fixie However, the position of the analytical aids in the chamber must be met Allow the analytical tool to be easily filled into and out of the chamber can be seen from their use.

As a preferred means of fixing the analytical aids in a fixed position in the chamber has been found to partially narrow the chamber, preferably in the that area of the chamber which corresponds to the removal opening of the analytical device opposite. The narrowing can be continuous, e.g. B. conical, or gradually be and fix the analytical tool from one or more sides. The narrowing the chamber can affect the chamber wall or walls over its entire surface. It is however, it is also possible for the chamber to narrow one or more elevations on the Chamber wall or the chamber walls, which point into the interior of the chamber. The he Lifts can be shaped the same or different and for example in the form of There are domes, webs, beads, ribs or the like. The surveys in the Kam merwand cause the analytical tool to fix the position in the cam only partially touched and thus allow optimization of the forces with which the Fixation is achieved.  

According to the invention, it has been found to be particularly preferred to use the analytical aids medium both via a partially conical narrowing of the chamber wall and via a or to fix several elevations in the chamber wall in the chamber. Most notably three webs, which are located on two opposite chambers, preferably serve as elevations walls and which slightly bend the analytical aid in the chamber and so fix it in position using the bending stress generated. The bending may self-ver of course not to damage the analytical device or impair it function of the analytical aid.

Furthermore, it has been found to be preferred according to the invention that each chamber in the invention according to the storage container only one of the at least two openings of the chamber for the Filling and removal of the analytical aids is suitable. Only one of these two public is large enough to remove the analytical tool through it or around the analytical aid when filling them into the chamber bring in. In the following, this property of the opening is briefly referred to as "permeable to ana lytic aids ".

For the storage containers according to the prior art (in particular EP-A 0 738 666 and US 5,510,226) are both the openings in the bottom surface and the openings in the lid surface is permeable to the analytical aids contained in the storage container. When filling the storage container with analytical aids according to the above In the prior art, a surface of the storage container is first sealed with a film applies and then a number of analytical aids into the intended ones Chambers filled. Finally, the still open area is also covered with a film This method has the disadvantages that when the chambers are filled with the ana lytic aids the first film can be injured and that two manufacturing steps to Sealing the chambers are required. In the preferred storage container according to the invention Ratien, in which only one of the at least two openings of the chambers for the ana permeable to lytic aids, these disadvantages do not occur. Filling the Kam analytical aids can be done before any of the openings through a you Gel foil is closed because one of the openings of the chamber for the analytical aids is not permeable and can therefore serve as a floor for the chamber on which the inside  brought analytical aids. The risk of injury to the film that this This minimizes the process step that does not yet have to be present. Furthermore, the Process of sealing the chambers with foils from both opening sides at the same time respectively. In addition, the sealing film on the side of the invention advisory container is attached, on which the analytical aids are impermeable casual chamber openings, basically not from the inside through the in the Chamber located analytical aids are violated or pierced, which the Zuver casualness of the storage container according to the invention increased.

The removal of the analytical aids from the storage container according to the invention follows by pushing the analytical device out of the chamber, preferably with Help a pestle. For the preferred embodiment of the storage container according to the invention ratio, in which one of the two openings of the chamber for the analytical aid is not permeable, it is preferred that this opening is permeable to a plunger that can push the analytical device out of the storage container. It is very special preferred that each chamber contain a guide groove for the plunger. This holds the plunger and the analytical aid in the chamber during the ejection process in a precisely defined mutual relationship, so that tilting or juxtaposition slide and plunger and analytical aids are prevented from sliding past.

Since the films used to close the openings of the chambers of the invention Storage container serve to remove the analytical aid from the chamber of this must be severable, they naturally represent a potential mechanical Weak point of the storage container according to the invention. The selection for material and The thickness of the film is limited by cutting the sealing film using the analytical device in the chamber when the plunger is pressed onto the analytical device must be possible. In addition, the analytical aid must not be used when cutting the film to be damaged. Around these sealing foils, for example when the storage container is put down To protect nisses on a flat surface, it has proven advantageous according to the invention issued, surveys on the surfaces of the storage container sealed with foils to provide the one when parking the storage container on a flat surface Prevent direct contact between the film and the base. These surveys can be viewed as around  running, thin edge web on the outer periphery of the supply according to the invention be configured. Surveys in the center of the exposed with foil sealed surfaces of the storage container according to the invention. The Survey can take any form, for example, webs or a variety of rules moderately distributed nubs. The height of the survey depends essentially on the thickness the sealing film used. In order to be effective according to the invention, the survey min at least the thickness of the sealing film plus the thickness of any adhesive layer that may be present to fix the sealing film on the storage container according to the invention. Before however, the survey protrudes at least 300 to 400 microns above the surface of the gel film out. The elevations are preferably not covered with the sealing film, but the areas in which elevations are present are excluded from sealing. Before in some cases sealing foils are used in this case, which are applied to the Base body of the storage container have been provided with a corresponding recess. The application of such a sealing film naturally requires precise positioning the sealing film relative to the body of the storage container.

It has turned out to be particularly advantageous that at least one of the surfaces of the invention according storage container, which is provided with a sealing film, not exactly son which is designed in the form of an inward-facing cone. This is preferably the Area from which the analytical aids come from their chamber when using a plunger be pushed out. Of course, the opposite surface of this Feature or both surfaces that are sealed with film. The conical shape of the Surface has the advantage that the sealing film is protected against accidental damage is because only the outer edge can rest on a flat surface. In addition, the power that is necessary to cut the film, reduced by this geometry. Preferably the cone has an angle of inclination with respect to the flat surface of 1 ° to 45 °, in particular more preferably from 1 ° to 10 °, very particularly preferably from 5 °.

For the inclusion of the storage container according to the invention in a measuring device and to the car Automated removal of individual analytical aids can be carried out in the or be provided on the storage container. It appears important in this context the exact positionability of the storage container relative to the functional inventory  share a measuring device, and in particular to the plunger for the removal of aids. In In a preferred embodiment, the storage container according to the invention therefore contains a central hole into which a suitable guide pin of the measuring device can engage. Of furthermore, a notch or a toothed ring can be provided in the bore or separately therefrom be present in which a corresponding drive device of the measuring device can intervene, to bring the storage container into a favored removal position.

A corresponding measuring device engages in the central bore of the storage container Guide pin that holds the storage container in the correct position for the removal of the Aid holds. For example, a drive tooth can be located at the edge of the central bore wreath, in which a correspondingly shaped counterpart when using the storage container can intervene in a measuring device and with the help of the storage container in the measuring device can be rotated. The rotation of the storage container in the measuring device can do that Storage container are brought into appropriately predefined positions, so that with help a tappet from the measuring device, the test element removal and the provision of testele elements for measuring processes is made possible.

Another object of the invention is a system for the storage of analytical Aids containing an inventive storage container and two or more ana lytic aids.

The system according to the invention contains an inventive storage container according to the above Description. The storage container contains at least two, preferably 10 to 20 analytical aids, each individually sealed in a chamber. Particularly preferred the analytical aids are test elements for the analysis of rivers liquids, e.g. B. diagnostic test strips, or around lancets, test elements being completely are particularly preferred. Of course, according to the invention it is also possible to have several Types of analytical aids, for example test elements and lancets, in each because to accommodate their own chambers.

The system according to the invention can also contain a compact measuring device, which the Storage container according to the invention with the analytical aids contained therein preferably test elements, and the analytical tools from the  Is able to remove the storage container. The analytical tools are the Measuring device provided to carry out the desired analysis with it.

Finally, the subject of the invention is a system for storing analytical aids means containing one or more storage containers according to the invention and each storage container ratio two or more analytical aids, the storage containers in a Be ratio are included.

For additional securing of the analytical aids and the stock according to the invention reserves against harmful environmental influences, in particular moisture, light and mechani shear stress, they can again in a surrounding container, for. B. one with a stopper closable metal or plastic tube. This this or the container surrounding the storage container can preferably ent another desiccant keep and so the storage stability of the analytical aids, which is in the fiction appropriate storage containers, increase.

The advantages of the invention can be summarized as follows:

• - By fixing the analytical aids in the chambers of the storage container protection of the sealing film against accidental mechanical stress, for example when dropping, bumping or shaking.
• - The fixation of the analytical aids leads in the chambers of the storage container for precise positioning of the aids relative to a plunger, with the help of which they can be pushed out of the chamber. A slide of the ram past the auxiliary medium when pushed out of the storage container is thereby prevented.
• - The fixation of the analytical aids in the chambers of the storage container serves also as a guide for the tools when pushing out of the storage container. This minimizes the risk of the tools becoming jammed during this process.
• - Since the opposite chamber openings are preferably designed differently and so only on one side are permeable to analytical aids is the seal film on the surface that is not permeable to the aids when dropped,  Shocking or shaking the container is not endangered by the contents of the chambers; In addition, the production is simplified because the sealing of both surfaces, which the Openings of the chambers included, is possible in one step.
• - Due to the special design of those surfaces of the storage container according to the invention nisse, which are sealed with a sealing film, will damage the film Avoid placing the storage container on a flat surface. Under the Special design is understood, among other things, that surveys on the surfaces and / or conically inward surfaces are provided.
• - A protected sealing foil in turn helps to protect the analytical aids the chambers of the storage container.
• - In addition, the base body of the storage container according to the invention can be inexpensive can be produced by injection molding a plastic.

The invention is explained in more detail by the following drawings.

Fig. 1 shows a side view of a preferred embodiment of the storage container according to the invention.

Fig. 2 shows schematically a plan view of the circular base (lid) of the preferred embodiment of the storage container according to the invention from Fig. 1, in which the sealing film has been completely removed.

Fig. 3 shows schematically a plan view of the circular base (bottom) of the preferred embodiment of the storage container according to the invention from Fig. 1, in which the sealing film has been completely removed.

FIG. 4 shows a schematic longitudinal section through a preferred embodiment of the storage container according to the invention from FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 shows a schematic cross section through a preferred embodiment of the storage container according to the invention from FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 schematically shows an enlarged detail of a test element chamber, as can be seen in FIG. 2, in supervision.

Fig. 7 shows a schematic longitudinal section through a further preferred embodiment of a storage container according to the invention.

FIG. 8 shows a schematic enlarged detail of a cross section along the line BB ′ through two chambers of the embodiment of the storage container according to the invention shown in FIG. 7.

Fig. 9 shows schematically a preferred system according to the invention containing three inventions according to the invention storage containers for test elements and a container for these storage containers in the form of a tube closable with a stopper.

The numbers in the figures mean:

Reference list

1

Storage container

2nd

Test element

3rd

Test element chamber

4th

tapered top of the storage container

1

5

Sealing film on the top

4th

6

Elevation on the tapered top

4th

of the storage container

1

7

Desiccant chamber

8th

flat underside of the storage container

1

9

Elevation on the flat bottom

8th

of the storage container

1

10th

central bore with drive sprocket

11

Sealing film on the underside

8th

12th

Opening for pestle

13

Opening for test element removal

14

Opening for desiccant filling

15

Chamber wall of the test element chamber

3rd

16

Narrowing of the test element chamber

3rd

17th

Guide groove for ram

18th

web-shaped elevation in the chamber wall

15

19th

lancet

20th

Lancet chamber

21

Lancet body

22

tubular container for three storage containers

1

23

Plug for tubular container

22

In Fig. 1, a particularly preferred embodiment of the reservoir ( 1 ) according to the invention, here for storing analytical test elements, is shown in a side view. The storage container ( 1 ) is essentially shaped like a cylindrical drum, which has a circular, conically tapered top ( 4 ) and a substantially planar underside ( 8 ). The top ( 4 ) is the side from which the test elements can be removed. The underside ( 8 ) is the side through which a plunger for pushing out the test elements can penetrate into the storage container ( 1 ). The Darge presented storage container ( 1 ) is preferably made of a rigid, injection-molded plastic, such as polyethylene or polypropylene. The tapered upper side ( 4 ) and the flat underside ( 8 ) are provided with sealing foils ( 5 , 11 ) to protect the analytical test elements contained in the storage container ( 1 ). These sealing foils ( 5 , 11 ) can be glued or welded to the basic injection-molded body of the storage container ( 1 ). To protect the sealing foils ( 5 , 11 ), elevations ( 6 , 9 ) are provided both on the underside ( 8 ) of the reservoir ( 1 ) and on the top ( 4 ). These elevations ( 6 , 9 ) are preferably part of the injection molded base body of the storage container ( 1 ). They ensure that the sealing foils ( 5 , 11 ) are not damaged when the storage container ( 1 ) is placed on a flat surface. The sealing foils ( 5 , 11 ) have recesses in the area of the elevations ( 6 , 9 ) so that the elevations ( 6 , 9 ) are not covered by the sealing foils ( 5 , 11 ).

In Fig. 2 a top view is shown on the conically tapered upper surface (4) of the storage container (1). A large number of test element chambers ( 3 ) can be clearly seen, which are arranged in a star shape around the elevation ( 6 ) of the conically tapered upper side ( 4 ) of the storage container ( 1 ). The test element chambers ( 3 ) contain the opening for the test element removal ( 13 ) on the side facing the conically inclined upper side ( 4 ) of the storage container ( 1 ).

Inside the test element chamber (3) means are provided for fixing the test element of the test elements in chamber (3). On the one hand, a constriction ( 16 ) of the test element chamber ( 3 ) is included, which can fix a test element contained in the chamber from two opposite sides. On the other hand are in each test elements chamber (3) web-shaped elevations (18) in the chamber wall (15). The chamber wall ( 15 ) also contains a guide groove ( 17 ) for a plunger.

FIG. 3 shows a top view of the flat underside ( 8 ) of the storage container ( 1 ), the sealing film being removed here as in FIG. 2. Around a central bore ( 10 ) with drive sprocket, which is surrounded by an elevation ( 9 ), the openings ( 12 ) for a plunger and the opening ( 14 ) for the desiccant filling are visible in this view. On that side of the test element chamber ( 3 ) which faces the flat underside ( 8 ), an opening ( 12 ) is provided for a plunger, with the help of which. The test elements can be pushed out of the test element chamber ( 3 ). The openings ( 12 ) for the plunger are connected to the guide grooves ( 17 ) for the plunger.

The desiccant chambers are connected to the test element chambers via a channel (not visible in FIG. 3). The dimension of the channel is chosen so that individual desiccant particles cannot extend from the desiccant chamber into the test element chamber. A gas exchange between the desiccant chamber and the test element chamber must of course be ensured.

FIG. 4 shows a schematic longitudinal section along the line BB 'of the storage container ( 1 ) from FIG. 2 which is preferred according to the invention. The cross section illustrates in particular the location and shape of a test element chamber ( 3 ), a desiccant chamber ( 7 ) and the central bore ( 10 ) with drive sprocket. Furthermore, the cross section from FIG. 4 clearly shows how the upper side ( 4 ) of the storage container ( 1 ) is beveled conically. Furthermore, a test element ( 2 ) is shown schematically in order to clarify its position in the test element chamber ( 3 ).

By a plunger through the sealing foil (11) to the bottom (8) and penetrates through it before seen opening (12) in the test elements chamber (3), the test element (2) can move up out of the opening (13) and by the sealing film ( 5 ) of the top ( 4 ) can be removed from the storage container ( 1 ). The test element ( 2 ) is fixed in position in the storage container ( 1 ) by a constriction ( 16 ) and by web-shaped elevations in the chamber wall ( 15 ) in the test element chamber ( 3 ). An unintentional puncturing of the gel film ( 5 ) on the top of the storage container ( 1 ) is largely prevented. Puncturing the sealing film ( 11 ) of the underside ( 8 ) of the storage container ( 1 ) with the test element ( 2 ) is prevented by the fact that the bottom ( 8 ) of the storage container ( 1 ) in the loading area of the test element chamber ( 3 ) only has one opening ( 12 ) for a plunger, which is not permeable to the test element ( 2 ).

The central bore ( 10 ) is intended for receiving the storage container ( 1 ) in a measuring device. A guide pin engages in a corresponding measuring device in the central bore ( 10 ) and holds the storage container ( 1 ) in the correct position. The survey ( 6 ) on the conically tapered top ( 4 ) of the storage container ( 1 ) can in addition to the above-described function of protecting the sealing film ( 5 ) of the top ( 4 ) of the storage container ( 1 ) also to stabilize the position of the storage container ( 1 ) serve in a measuring device. The elevation ( 6 ) can engage there, for example, in a corresponding depression or recess.

At the lower edge of the central bore ( 10 ) there is a drive sprocket, into which a correspondingly shaped counterpart can engage when using the storage container ( 1 ) in a measuring device and with the help of which the storage container ( 1 ) can be rotated in the measuring device. By rotating the storage container ( 1 ) in the measuring device, the storage container ( 1 ) can be brought into correspondingly predefined positions, so that the test element can be removed and test elements can be made available for measurement processes with the aid of a plunger.

In the particularly preferred embodiment of the storage container according to the invention described here, there is a drying agent chamber ( 7 ) diametrically opposite each test element chamber ( 3 ), which via an opening ( 14 ) with a conventional drying agent, such as. B. silica gel or molecular sieve can be filled. Each desiccant chamber ( 7 ) is assigned to an immediately adjacent test element chamber ( 3 ) and connected to it via a channel which enables an air exchange between the desiccant chamber ( 7 ) and the test element element chamber ( 3 ).

FIG. 5 shows a cross section along the line AA ′ of the storage container ( 1 ) from FIG. 1, which is particularly preferred according to the invention. In this figure, the web-shaped elevations ( 18 ) in the chamber wall ( 15 ) of the test element chamber ( 3 ) can be seen particularly clearly. Three such surveys are provided for each test element chamber ( 3 ).

Fig. 6 shows by way of an enlarged detail section of one test element chamber (3), as can be seen in Fig. 2 as a test element (2) exercises with the help of the web-Uplift (18) in the chamber wall (15) of the test elements chamber (3) is fixed in its position. The web-shaped elevations ( 18 ) of the chamber wall ( 15 ) of the test element chamber ( 3 ) ensure easy bending of the test element ( 2 ), so that this is fixed due to the bending stress in the test element chamber ( 3 ). The constrictions ( 16 ) of the test element chamber ( 3 ) serve to further fix the test element ( 2 ). The test chamber ( 3 ) is filled with the test element ( 2 ) by inserting one test element ( 2 ) into each chamber ( 3 ).

FIG. 7 shows a schematic longitudinal section through a further preferred embodiment of the storage container ( 1 ) according to the invention. In contrast to the previously described embodiments, the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 contains a lancet ( 19 ) as an analytical aid, which is accommodated in a lancet chamber ( 20 ). The lancet ( 19 ) is partially surrounded by a lancet body ( 21 ) made of plastic.

As is clear from FIG. 8, the storage container ( 1 ) according to the invention can also contain a lancet chamber ( 20 ) in addition to a test element chamber ( 3 ). The geometric arrangement of the test element chamber ( 3 ) and lancet chamber ( 20 ) can be carried out in a manner analogous to the geometric arrangement of the test element chamber ( 3 ) and the drying agent chamber ( 7 ), as can be seen, for example, from FIG. 5. In principle, in addition to test element chambers ( 3 ) and lancet chambers ( 20 ), it is possible to provide desiccant chambers which, for example, are in contact with one test element chamber ( 3 ) via a channel, enabling gas exchange. However, it is also possible to dispense with separate desiccant chambers for the particularly preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 8. For example, it is possible to manufacture the inner walls of the test element chambers ( 3 ) from a plastic containing a desiccant. It is also possible to manufacture the lancet body ( 21 ) from a plastic containing a drying agent. In the latter case, it is necessary to enable gas exchange between each test element chamber ( 3 ) and a lancet chamber ( 20 ), for example through a channel connecting them.

In Fig. 9 an inventively preferred system is shown schematically, which in this preferred case, of three preferred according to the invention supply containers (1) and a closeable with a plug (23), the tubular container (22). The system shown in FIG. 9 serves to protect the storage containers ( 1 ) according to the invention, for example during storage and transport to the end user. The tube-shaped container ( 22 ) is preferably made of a stable, light and moisture-impermeable plastic or metal, for example polyethylene, polypropylene or aluminum. The plug ( 23 ) is preferably also made of one of the materials mentioned. In the form shown, the plug ( 23 ) is simply pressed into the tube ( 22 ) and thus sealed. Of course, the tube ( 22 ) can also be closed by means of a screw closure or a hinged closure. In the tubular Behäl tnis (22) an additional drying agent can be used for stabilization of the test elements contained in the storage containers (1) may be provided, which can either be housed at the bottom of the tubular container (22) or in the plug (23).

Claims (12)

1. Storage container (1) made of a rigid material for two or more analytical auxiliary medium (2) comprising separate, water-vapor-tight chambers (3), in which a maximum of a tool (2) can be accommodated in each case, wherein the chambers zuein other in a regular geometric arrangement and each of the chambers ( 3 ) has at least two opposing openings ( 12 , 13 ) which are each closed by a film ( 5 , 11 ) in a water vapor-tight manner and there is a desiccant reservoir for each chamber ( 3 ) in the storage container ( 1 ) located, characterized in that each chamber ( 3 ) has means for fixing the position of the analytical aids ( 2 ) in the chamber ( 3 ). 2. Storage container according to claim 1, characterized in that as a means for fixing the analytical aids serve to partially narrow the chamber. 3. Storage container according to claim 2, characterized in that the chamber for Veren one or more elevations in the chamber wall, which point into the interior of the chamber, having. 4. Storage container according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that each Chamber through only one of the at least two openings for the analytical aid is casual. 5. Storage container according to claim 4, characterized in that the one of the at least two openings in each chamber, which is not permeable to the analytical aids, is permeable to a pestle that carries the analytical aids from the storage container can push. 6. Storage container according to claim 5, characterized in that each chamber has a Füh contains groove for the plunger. 7. Storage container according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that on the areas of the storage container sealed with foils are present,  the direct con when placing the storage container on a flat surface Prevent tact between the film and the base. 8. System for the storage of analytical aids containing a storage container according to one of claims 1 to 7 and two or more analytical aids. 9. System according to claim 8, characterized in that the analytical aid test are elements for the analysis of liquids. 10. System according to claim 8 or 9, further comprising a measuring device which for on taking one or more storage containers according to one of claims 1 to 7 ge is suitable. 11. System for the storage of analytical aids containing one or more pre storage containers according to one of claims 1 to 7 and two or each storage container several analytical aids, with the storage containers contained in one container are. 12. System according to claim 11, characterized in that the container for the supply Contains a desiccant.