Sample container with physical fill-line indicator

摘要

A collection container for collecting biological fluid specimens having an integral fill-line indicator which corresponds to a desired specimen volume is disclosed. The integral fill-line indicator may comprise a ridge that is raised from the surface of the collection container. The integral fill-line indicator may also be altered by surface modification to impart a distinct visual appearance and/or texture. The collection container may have a single or a plurality of integral fill-line indicators which correspond to a desired specimen volume range. A method of manufacturing a collection container having an integral fill-line indicator is also disclosed.

主权项

1. A specimen collection container assembly comprising:
a first tubular member having a first opening, a first closed bottom, and a first sidewall extending circumferentially between said first opening and said first closed bottom, said first tubular member capable of receiving a specimen sample therein; a second tubular member having a second opening, a second closed bottom, and a second sidewall extending circumferentially between said second opening and said second closed bottom, said first tubular member non-removably engaged with said second tubular member; and a fill-line indicator integrally formed with an inner surface of at least one of said first and second sidewall, said fill-line indicator corresponding to at least a minimum expected fill volume of the collection container, wherein said fill-line indicator is integrally formed with said inner surface of said second sidewall, wherein the first tubular member defines an internal volume, wherein the fill-line indicator corresponds to at least a minimum expected fill volume of the internal volume defined by the first tubular member, wherein said fill-line indicator comprises a roughened surface that defines an array of peaks and valleys, and wherein the remainder of the inner surface of the second sidewall comprises a highly polished transparent surface, and wherein said fill-line indicator provides an enlarging effect to the specimen sample when a meniscus of a fluid level of the specimen sample is at the fill-line indicator, providing an apparent indication of reaching such level of containment.