Container system and method for freezing and thawing a liquid product

US12016330B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC · US

Inventors

• Jeffrey C. Johnson · Beverly Hills, US
• Anthony Flammino · Johnstown, US
• Mark A. Petrich · West Point, US
• Scott McFeaters · Johnstown, US
• John H. ROOSA, JR. · Rahway, US
• Robert Ian ALPERN · Lansdale, US
• Joseph W. LOCURCIO · Whitehouse Station, US
• Matthew H. Flamm · West Point, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 8, 2021
• Grant date: Jun 25, 2024
• Expiry date: Oct 14, 2042

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F25D11/003
• WIPO field: Handling
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

Container system and method for freezing (and subsequently thawing) a liquid such as a drug substance, such that all containers in a set have a uniform width, hence uniform freeze-path length, in the widthwise direction and perpendicular to major walls of the containers, irrespective of the particular length, height, and volumetric capacity of the various containers in the set. This leads to uniform freezing performance and thereby reduces cryoconcentration. The system also eliminates or reduces ice-bridging, and the potential for containers rupturing during freezing and thawing operations.