Abstract: A device and method for separating heavier and lighter fractions of a fluid sample. The device includes a plurality of constituents comprising a container and a composite element in the container. The composite element is a separator comprising at least two components and more particularly, a bellows with a seal body, a low-density float and a high-density ballast. A fluid sample is delivered to the container and the device is subjected to centrifugation whereby the centrifugal load causes the seal body of the separator to deform so that the separator migrates through the fluid sample and then stabilizes between the heavier and lighter fractions of the fluid sample. The seal body of the separator will resiliently return to its initial configuration upon termination of the centrifugal load such that the seal body sealingly engages the container and the composite element separates the heavier and lighter fractions of the fluid sample.

Abstract: A device and method for separating heavier and lighter fractions of a fluid sample. The device includes a flexible collapsible inner container disposed within a substantially rigid outer container. A closure seals the open top end of the outer container. A filter assembly is sealingly mounted to the open top end of the inner container. The filter assembly includes a filter that permits lighter fractions to pass therethrough, while substantially blocking the heavier fractions. The filter assembly further includes a filter support having a slit valve registered with the filter. The slit valve opens in response to fluid pressure created by the lighter fractions for permitting the lighter fractions to flow therethrough.

Abstract: A device and method for separating heavier and lighter phases of a fluid sample is described. The fluid separation device includes an elongate collection tube accommodating the fluids, and a deformable separator including a deformable bladder having a flowable substance contained therein. The deformable bladder is reconfigurable upon centrifugation to a toroidal shape allowing fluid flow therethrough. The bladder is movable along the tube during centrifugation to a position between the separated blood phase.

Abstract: The present invention is a safety shield assembly having a shield and a collar for connecting the shield to a fluid handling device whereby the shield may be pivoted with respect to the collar. Preferably, the safety shield assembly may be used with a needle assembly, an intravenous infusion set a syringe, a catheter or other fluid handling devices or assemblies that contain piercing elements.

Abstract: The present invention is a method of using a safety shield assembly having a shield and a collar and more particularly a method of using a safety shield assembly with a fluid handling device whereby the shield may be pivoted with respect to the collar. Preferably, a method of using a safety shield assembly with a needle assembly, an intravenous infusion set a syringe, a catheter or other fluid handling devices or assemblies that contain piercing elements.

Abstract: The present invention is a collection assembly comprising a container, a cap assembly removably and sealably secured to the container, whereby access to the interior of the container can be made with a piercing element without removing the cap assembly from the container. The cap assembly includes a cap body and a membrane like septum supported by the cap body. The septum provides for a pierceable element to have access to the interior of the container. The membrane is a thermoplastic elastomer and is self-sealing upon removal of the piercing element.