Isolating Layer Patents (Class 210/789)
  • Patent number: 11480559
    Abstract: A method for analyzing thrombogenic capacity or blood coagulation capacity, the method comprising adding calcium, a blood coagulation factor XII (FXII) inhibitor, and a kallikrein inhibitor to blood collected with a blood collection tube containing sodium citrate, to allow initiation of blood coagulation reaction, is provided. Preferably, heparin, heparan sulfate, and tissue factor are further added to the blood, and thrombogenic capacity or blood coagulation capacity is analyzed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2022
    Assignee: FUJIMORI KOGYO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kazuya Hosokawa, Tomoko Wada, Hisayo Kaneko, Takaaki Hasegawa, Tomoka Nagasato
  • Patent number: 10780449
    Abstract: The disclosed inventive concept provides a fluid accessory for facilitating the dispensing of fluid onto a vehicle's windshield, cameras, sensors, or the like. The fluid accessory includes a body having an inlet portion and an outlet portion in which an inlet adapter and an outlet adapter, respectively, are fitted. The fluid accessory also includes a sleeve which is fitted within the body and around the inlet adapter. The body includes a plurality of longitudinal protrusions extending radially into the body. The sleeve and longitudinal projections cooperate to define a plurality of debris collection channels for collecting debris flowing within the fluid and through the fluid accessory. The fluid accessory also includes a filter media, such as a filter media, which is positioned between the outlet adapter and the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: A. Raymond et Cie
    Inventor: Larry Michael Rachow
  • Patent number: 10499840
    Abstract: A container assembly is disclosed including an outer container, a hollow inner member, and a closure. The outer container has a closed bottom, an open top, and a sidewall extending therebetween. The hollow inner member is disposed within the outer container and has an inner surface defining at least one capillary channel. The inner member includes a first end adjacent to the open top of the outer container and has an outer periphery seated against the sidewall of the outer container. The closure has a proximal end and a distal end. The closure proximal end is seated at least partially within the first end of the inner member to seal the outer container and inner member and define a fluid collection chamber. The closure distal end defines a recessed area shaped to direct fluid under capillary action to the at least one capillary channel in the inner member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2019
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Benjamin R. Bartfeld, Bradley M. Wilkinson, Ajit Dastane
  • Patent number: 10449117
    Abstract: A stopper is generally provided in which a hollow shell includes at least one outer layer and an inner layer positioned within the outer layer. The outer layer is formed from a substantially solid polymer while the inner layer is formed from a cold-flowable polymer. The cold-flowable polymer is deformable when an object is inserted therein and is scalable when the object is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2019
    Assignee: Q HOLDING COMPANY
    Inventor: Amalendu Sarkar
  • Patent number: 10088391
    Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods for processing a blood sample. One embodiment comprises an isolation container having at least one sidewall defining an interior volume. The interior volume includes a medial reservoir in fluid communication with proximal and distal reservoirs. The diameter of the medial reservoir is less than the diameter of the proximal and distal reservoirs. Therefore, the isolation container has an interior volume which is roughly hour-glass shaped with the medial reservoir being a substantially narrowed portion or channel between two wider portions. The isolation container is configured such that the buffy coat layer of fractionated blood will be located within and may be accessed from the reduced cross sectional medial reservoir after a centrifuge or other processing step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: Regenexx, LLC
    Inventors: Christopher J. Centeno, Brian Leach, Ryan Dregalla, Patrick Reischling
  • Patent number: 9388979
    Abstract: The object of the invention is a chemical-looping combustion device utilizing a solid fuel generating unburnt particles and using oxygen-carrying particles such as metallic oxides, and comprising at least one combustion zone and a separator for the particles contained in a gaseous mixture coming from the combustion zone, wherein the separator comprises at least one enclosure (1) with an intake line (4) for said mixture, a discharge line (5) arranged in the lower part of the enclosure and an outlet line (6) arranged in the upper part of the device, the intake and discharge/outlet parameters being so selected as to create in the enclosure a dense phase in the lower part and a dilute phase in the upper part, and wherein said intake line opens into the dilute phase. The invention also relates to a combustion method implementing the device according to the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignees: TOTAL SA, IFP ENERGIES NOUVELLES
    Inventors: Ali Hoteit, Florent Guillou, Sébastien Rifflart, Thierry Gauthier
  • Patent number: 9182328
    Abstract: The application discloses an apparatus and method for processing biological material, including a suspension of cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2015
    Assignees: BAXALTA INCORPORATED, BAXALTA GMBH
    Inventors: Kyungyoon Min, Thomas E. Dudar, James C. Laird
  • Patent number: 9176038
    Abstract: The application discloses an apparatus and method for processing biological material, including a suspension of cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2015
    Assignees: BAXALTA INCORPORATED, BAXALTA GMBH
    Inventors: Kyungyoon Min, Thomas E. Dudar, James C. Laird
  • Patent number: 9134286
    Abstract: An analyzing device including a capillary cavity and an inlet protruding circumferentially outward from an axial center. The capillary cavity and the inlet are connected by a guide section formed so as to extend circumferentially inward and on which a capillary force acts. A sample liquid collected from a leading end of the inlet is transferred to a separation cavity. A bent section and a recess are formed at a connected section of the guide section and the capillary cavity so as to change the direction of a passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2015
    Assignee: Panasonic Healthcare Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Saiki, Kouzou Tagashira
  • Patent number: 9095849
    Abstract: A separator for use in a container for a biological fluid is disclosed. The separator includes a separator body having a first region at least partially made of a first material having a first density, and a second region at least partially made of a second material having a second density different from the first density. The separator has an overall density intermediate the densities of a first phase and a second phase of the biological fluid. At least a portion of the separator is deformable between a first condition in which the biological fluid can pass between an inner surface of the container and the separator, and a second condition in which at least a portion of the separator prevents the biological fluid from passing between the inner surface of the container and the separator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Robert J. Losada, Gregory L. Lusardi, Fu-Chung Lin
  • Patent number: 9080993
    Abstract: Provided a microdevice capable of performing analysis quickly and at a high level of sensitivity even when a minute amount of sample solution is used. The microdevice is equipped with a rotation board, a reaction field provided on the rotation board, and an introduction portion for introducing a solution into the reaction field. The microdevice is characterized in that the following angle is always 45 to 90°: an angle of a part of a wall surface of the reaction field where the centrifugal force has the greatest effect with respect to the direction of the centrifugal force generated when the rotation board is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Naomi Asano, Yuichiro Shimizu
  • Patent number: 8950586
    Abstract: A platelet collection device comprising a centrifugal spin-separator container with a cavity having a longitudinal inner surface. A float in the cavity has a base, a platelet collection surface above the base, an outer surface. The float density is below the density of erythrocytes and above the density of plasma. The platelet collection surface has a position on the float which places it below the level of platelets when the float is suspended in separated blood. During centrifugation, a layer of platelets or buffy coat collects closely adjacent the platelet collection surface. Movement of a float having a density greater than whole blood through the sedimenting erythrocytes releases entrapped platelets, increasing the platelet yield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Hanuman LLC
    Inventors: Randel Dorian, Richard W. Storrs, Scott R. King
  • Patent number: 8936162
    Abstract: Methods of producing collection tubes are presented. The methods include providing a separator substance that can rapidly polymerize in a short time to a desired hardness and disposing the separator substance within the lumen of the tube. The separator substance is formulated to have a density between an average density of a serum fraction of whole blood and a cell-containing fraction of whole blood, and to be flowable with whole blood. Upon centrifugation of a tube having blood, the separator substance forms a barrier between the whole blood fractions. The tube and barrier maintain stability of one or more analyte levels, including potassium and glucose, within 10% of their initial values before centrifugation for at least four days.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventor: Jane Emerson
  • Publication number: 20140367349
    Abstract: A Hydrodynamic separation device using curved channels is provided. High aspect ratio channels improve the focusing dynamics of the hydrodynamic separator and leads to improved channel design choices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2014
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventors: Armin R. Volkel, John S. Paschkewitz, Huangpin B. Hsieh, Kai Melde
  • Patent number: 8852444
    Abstract: The present teachings provide, in part, methods of separating two-dimensional nanomaterials by atomic layer thickness. In certain embodiments, the present teachings provide methods of generating graphene nanomaterials having a controlled number of atomic layer(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Northwestern University
    Inventors: Alexander A. Green, Mark C. Hersam
  • Patent number: 8852436
    Abstract: A process for recovering solvents from inorganic and organic solutions is disclosed. The process utilizes a polymer capable of selectively extracting the solvent from the inorganic or organic solution. Introduction of the polymer into the solvent solution creates formation of a polymer-rich phase and a solute-rich phase. The recovered solvent may be separated from the polymer-rich phase by heating the polymer-rich phase to at least the cloud point of the polymer. The polymer and/or solute may be recycled for further use in the solvent recovery process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: The Board of Trustees of The University of Illinois
    Inventors: Nandakishore Rajagopalan, Vinodkumar Ambalal Patel
  • Patent number: 8815100
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a cyclone type liquid/gas or liquid/liquid separator having separation properties that are stabilized, even when the flow rate and the proportions of the liquid phases for separation vary, by means of a platform situated in the low portion of a cylindrical separation chamber that is fed at its top end via a tangential feed orifice. The present invention also provides an installation and a method of separating the oil and water contained in crude oil, with the help of a cyclone of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Saipem S.A.
    Inventors: Paul Chantrel, Marc Bonnissel
  • Patent number: 8808551
    Abstract: An apparatus that allows for separating and collecting a fraction of a sample. The apparatus, when used with a centrifuge, allows for the creation of at least three fractions in the apparatus. It also provides for a new method of extracting the buffy coat phase from a whole blood sample and mesenchymal stem cells from bone reaming material. A buoy system that may include a first buoy portion and a second buoy member operably interconnected may be used to form at least three fractions from a sample during a substantially single centrifugation process. Therefore, the separation of various fractions may be substantially quick and efficient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Michael D. Leach, Joel C. Higgins, Matthew Swift, Nathan Gordon
  • Publication number: 20140131292
    Abstract: A separator disk for use in centrifugal separation of components is designed to automatically position itself during separation at the interface between the supernatant and the remaining components. Preferably the interface is between plasma and red blood cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2014
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: HARVEST TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: James R. ELLSWORTH, Steven LEVESQUE
  • Publication number: 20140091048
    Abstract: A separator system operable to use centrifugation to fractionate a multiple component material, such as a suspension including blood, comprises a buoy. The buoy can be carried in a separation container and has a tuned density that is configured to reach an equilibrium position in the multiple component material. A guide surface is carried on a buoy upper surface and is inclined to an accumulation position near a buoy perimeter. The buoy suspension fractionation system can be used in a method of isolating a fraction from a suspension, and in a method for re-suspending particulates for withdrawal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Applicants: Hanuman LLC, Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Michael D. LEACH, Randel DORIAN, Jacy C. HOEPPNER
  • Patent number: 8657896
    Abstract: A separator is disclosed. The separator includes a gas/liquid separator vessel, an enclosure, a coalescer and a demister. The gas/liquid separator vessel has a first end, a second end, a first inlet, a first outlet, and a first separation chamber. The first inlet can be adjacent to the first end. The enclosure is positioned within the first separation chamber of the liquid separator vessel. The enclosure has a second inlet, a second outlet, a drain positioned therebetween, and a second separation chamber. The second inlet can be directed towards the first end of the gas/liquid separator vessel. The second separation chamber defines a flow path for a gas stream in which the flow path passes sequentially through the second inlet, second separation chamber and the second outlet. The coalescer is positioned in the second separation chamber to intercept the flow path of the gas stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Laurence Gouy, Francis Allouche
  • Patent number: 8647396
    Abstract: When producing biodiesel from fats, oils or split fatty acids rich in steryl glycosides, the light phase rich in fatty acid alkyl esters, which is obtained from the transesterification or esterification, is washed with water in a washing column, wherein the suspension layer formed is treated by stirring. In this way, the steryl glycosides are transferred into the light phase of the wash. In a subsequent treatment of the light washer phase with water in an intensive mixer, compact steryl glycoside/fatty acid alkyl ester/water agglomerates are obtained, which can easily be separated by means of centrifugation. From the light phase of centrifugation, on-spec biodiesel is obtained upon further processing by drying and/or filtration. This process is suitable for processing fats, oils or split fatty acids with a high content of steryl glycosides and avoids the use of auxiliary substances foreign to the process. It is characterized by simplicity of equipment and a low demand for energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Lurgi GmbH
    Inventors: Rudolf Boensch, Eckhard Seidel, Helmut Saft
  • Patent number: 8642254
    Abstract: Disclosed is a composition for the separation of a serum or plasma, which comprises a cyclopentadiene oligomer, can be used for separating a serum or plasma by utilizing the difference in specific gravity among blood components, and enables to provide a serum or plasma having no oily component floating therein after centrifugal separation. The composition comprises a trimellitic acid ester and/or a pyromellitate ester and a cyclopentadiene oligomer. Alternatively, the composition comprises an aromatic esterified compound and a cyclopentadiene oligomer as the main ingredients and additionally comprises an inorganic micropowder and an organic gelling agent as thixotropy-imparting agents, wherein the organic gelling agent is contained in an amount of less than 0.06 parts by weight relative to 100 parts by weight of the cyclopentadiene oligomer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideo Anraku, Hiroaki Taira
  • Patent number: 8609874
    Abstract: Processes and methods of recovering desired products from fermentation stillage are presented, including processes and methods of recovering lipids and aqueous materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Edeniq, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Root Woods, Vahik Krikorian, Juston Smithers
  • Patent number: 8603346
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus that allows for separating and collecting a fraction of a sample. The apparatus, when used with a centrifuge, allows for the creation of at various fractions in the apparatus. A buoy system that may include a first buoy portion and a second member operably interconnected may be used to form at least three fractions from a sample during a substantially single centrifugation process. Therefore, the separation of various fractions may be substantially quick and efficient. Also selected fractions from the sample can be applied to a patient, either alone or as part of a mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Michael D. Leach, Joel C. Higgins
  • Patent number: 8603345
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device and method for collecting blood whereby certain target components are isolated or removed from the blood sample at the time of collecting the blood, as well as methods for using such devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Julie Ross, Bruce Haywood
  • Patent number: 8580183
    Abstract: Methods of producing collection tubes are presented. The methods include providing a separator substance that can rapidly polymerize in a short time to a desired hardness and disposing the separator substance within the lumen of the tube. The separator substance is formulated to have a density between an average density of a serum fraction of whole blood and a cell-containing fraction of whole blood, and to be flowable with whole blood. Upon centrifugation of a tube having blood, the separator substance forms a barrier between the whole blood fractions. The barrier rapidly hardens forming a solid barrier when triggered by a suitable energy source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventor: Jane F. Emerson
  • Patent number: 8567609
    Abstract: An apparatus that allows for separating and collecting a fraction of a sample. The apparatus, when used with a centrifuge, allows for the creation of at various fractions in the apparatus. A buoy system that may include a first buoy portion and a second buoy member operably interconnected may be used to form at least three fractions from a sample during a substantially single centrifugation process. Therefore, the separation of various fractions may be substantially quick and efficient. Also selected fractions from the sample can be applied to a patient, either alone or as part of a mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Matthew D. Landrigan, Michael D. Leach, Joel C. Higgins
  • Patent number: 8511479
    Abstract: A device for separating and isolating components of a biological fluid comprising a container for containing the fluid to be processed, a tube cap assembly for closing the container while providing filling and extraction communication therewith, a float assembly disposed within the container for funneling and controlling biological fluid flow into an inverted domed shaped isolation chamber within the float and controlling the biological fluid flow out of the isolation chamber for effecting an encapsulation or a sealed isolation of at least one component or fraction of the biological fluid flow within the isolation chamber during a centrifugation process. The device further comprising a flexible tube for connecting an extraction passageway disposed within the float assembly and an extraction valve of the tube cap assembly for allowing extraction of at least the one component or fraction encapsulated or isolated within the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: ThermoGenesis Corp.
    Inventors: John R. Chapman, Vijay Kumar, Brian K. Cinquini, Phillip D. Kingsley
  • Patent number: 8511480
    Abstract: A device for separating and isolating components of a biological fluid comprising a container for containing the fluid to be processed, a tube cap assembly for closing the container while providing filling and extraction communication therewith, a float assembly disposed within the container for funneling and controlling biological fluid flow into an inverted domed shaped isolation chamber within the float and controlling the biological fluid flow out of the isolation chamber for effecting an encapsulation or a sealed isolation of at least one component or fraction of the biological fluid flow within the isolation chamber during a centrifugation process. The device further comprising a flexible tube for connecting an extraction passageway disposed within the float assembly and an extraction valve of the tube cap assembly for allowing extraction of at least the one component or fraction encapsulated or isolated within the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: ThermoGenesis Corp.
    Inventors: John R. Chapman, Vijay Kumar, Brian K. Cinquini, Phillip D. Kingsley
  • Patent number: 8506823
    Abstract: A device for separating and isolating components of a biological fluid comprising a container for containing the fluid to be processed, a tube cap assembly for closing the container while providing filling and extraction communication therewith, a float assembly disposed within the container for funneling and controlling biological fluid flow into an inverted domed shaped isolation chamber within the float and controlling the biological fluid flow out of the isolation chamber for effecting an encapsulation or a sealed isolation of at least one component or fraction of the biological fluid flow within the isolation chamber during a centrifugation process. The device further comprising a flexible tube for connecting an extraction passageway disposed within the float assembly and an extraction valve of the tube cap assembly for allowing extraction of at least the one component or fraction encapsulated or isolated within the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: ThermoGenesis Corp.
    Inventors: John R. Chapman, Vijay Kumar, Brian K. Cinquini, Phillip D. Kingsley
  • Patent number: 8506825
    Abstract: A method of washing blood mixed with undesirable elements not normally found in healthy whole blood to remove the undesirable elements, the method comprising: separating the blood into components according to relative densities of the components with a rotating centrifuge bowl; providing a port through which fluid exits the bowl, the exiting fluid having a concentration of undesirable elements; flowing washing solution into the centrifuge bowl at an initial flow rate; monitoring the fluid exiting the bowl with an optical sensor having an output signal indicative of the composition of the exiting fluid; and increasing and decreasing the flow rate of the wash solution as a function of the output signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Sorin Group Italia S.r.l.
    Inventors: Matteo Fortini, Stefano Reggiani, Ivo Panzani
  • Patent number: 8474630
    Abstract: A platelet collection device comprising a centrifugal spin-separator container with a cavity having a longitudinal inner surface. A float in the cavity has a base, a platelet collection surface above the base, an outer surface. The float density is below the density of erythrocytes and above the density of plasma. The platelet collection surface has a position on the float which places it below the level of platelets when the float is suspended in separated blood. During centrifugation, a layer of platelets or buffy coat collects closely adjacent the platelet collection surface. Movement of a float having a density greater than whole blood through the sedimenting erythrocytes releases entrapped platelets, increasing the platelet yield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Hanuman, LLC
    Inventors: Randel Dorian, Scott R. King, Richard Wood Storrs
  • Patent number: 8465647
    Abstract: A method and system are disclosed for separating single-walled carbon nanotubes from double and multi-walled carbon nanotubes by using the difference in the buoyant density of Single-Walled versus Multi-Walled carbon nanotubes. In one embodiment, the method comprises providing a vessel with first and second solutions. The first solution comprises a quantity of carbon nanotubes, including single-walled carbon nanotubes and double and multi-walled carbon nanotubes. The single walled nanotubes have a first density, the double and multi-walled nanotubes having a second density. The second solution in the vessel has a third density between said first and second densities. The vessel is centrifuged to form first and second layers in the vessel, with the second solution between said first and second layers. The single-walled carbon nanotubes are predominantly in the first layer, and the second and multi-walled carbon nanotubes are predominantly in the second layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Ageeth A. Bol, George S. Tulevski
  • Patent number: 8444620
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for separation, concentration, and/or applying a biological or bio-engineered fluid. Generally, the fluid application device includes a sprayer body to enable the application of the fluid and a container adaptable to enable the separation of the fluid into at least a first component and a second component. The container is releasably coupled to the nozzle. The nozzle is adapted to withdraw at least one of the first component or the second component from the container after the fluid has been separated to apply the fluid to a selected site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Michael D. Leach, Barry F. Hecker
  • Patent number: 8383419
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to harvesting a target material from a suspension using a tube and float system. A suspension suspected of containing a target material is combined with a solution having one or more labels that distinguish the target material from other materials in the suspension. The tube, float, and suspension are centrifuged to separate various materials in the suspension according to associated specific gravities. The float expands the axial length of the target material layer and displaces the target material to a narrow space between the float and the inner wall of the tube. The space is illuminated with light that causes the labels to emit light identifying the location of the target material within the tube. One or more openings can then be formed in the tube at or near the point where the target material is located and the target material harvested.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventors: Robert A. Levine, Stephen C. Wardlaw
  • Patent number: 8377395
    Abstract: A blood specimen processor by means of which blood specimens are collected into a collection tube containing an anticoagulant and a molded buoy of predetermined density between 1.045 and 1.084 with an embedded water swellable o-ring that expands to form a robust seal in a leucocyte density gradient between the buoy's outer surface and tube's inner surface. The buoy is made of a first resin and a second resin, the first resin having a lower density than the second resin, the first resin and the second resin being present in such amounts and relative proportions so that the body has an overall density between 1.045 and 1.084 and preferably, a center of gravity below a geometric center of the body. When the blood specimen contained in the processor is centrifuged, the buoy is thrust through the separating blood and the developing interface of erythrocytes, leucocytes, and plasma.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Charles M. Coleman
  • Patent number: 8348066
    Abstract: A floating separating element for use in centrifugal separation of components of a physiological fluid comprises a positioning part and a separating part, where the positioning part is designed to automatically assume a position in a supernatant and a separating part is positioned at a desired location with respect to the interface between the supernatant and heavier components. In preferred embodiments the physiological fluids are blood or bone marrow aspirate, and the heavier components comprise red blood cells. The positioning part comprises the majority of the mass of the separating element and is thin so that differences in the position of the separating element with respect to the interface are small compared to differences in the densities of the separated compoments, particularly the component comprising red blood cells. A method allows red blood cells to move the separating element during decanting to ensure complete decant of the supernatant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Harvest Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: James R. Ellsworth
  • Patent number: 8337711
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system to separate, enrich, and/or purify a cellular population from a biological tissue, such as a tissue sample. For example, an adipose tissue sample can be acquired and disrupted. The disrupted tissue sample can then be separated and purified. The separated components can include multipotent, pluripotent, or other cell populations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Randel Dorian, Michael D. Leach, Richard W. Storrs, Jason Chavarria
  • Patent number: 8328024
    Abstract: A separator that uses centrifugation to fractionate a suspension such as blood comprises a separation container and a buoy. The buoy is carried in the separation container and has a tuned density that is configured to reach an equilibrium position in a suspension. The guide surface is carried on the buoy upper surface and is inclined to an accumulation position near a buoy perimeter. The buoy suspension fractionation system can be used in a method of isolating a fraction from a suspension, and in a method for re-suspending particulates for withdrawal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignees: Hanuman, LLC, Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Michael D. Leach, Randel Dorian, Jacy C. Hoeppner
  • Patent number: 8318077
    Abstract: Methods of producing collection tubes are presented. The methods include providing a separator substance that can rapidly polymerize in a short time to a desired hardness and disposing the separator substance within the lumen of the tube. The separator substance is formulated to have a density between an average density of a serum fraction of whole blood and a cell-containing fraction of whole blood, and to be flowable with whole blood. Upon centrifugation of a tube having blood, the separator substance forms a barrier between the whole blood fractions. The barrier rapidly hardens forming a solid barrier when triggered by a suitable energy source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventor: Jane Emerson
  • Patent number: 8282839
    Abstract: A floating separating element for use in centrifugal separation of components of a physiological fluid comprises a positioning part and a separating part, where the positioning part is designed to automatically assume a position in a supernatant and a separating part is positioned at a desired location with respect to the interface between the supernatant and heavier components. In preferred embodiments the physiological fluids are blood or bone marrow aspirate, and the heavier components comprise red blood cells. The positioning part comprises the majority of the mass of the separating element and is thin so that differences in the position of the separating element with respect to the interface are small compared to differences in the densities of the separated components, particularly the component comprising red blood cells. A method allows red blood cells to move the separating element during decanting to ensure complete decant of the supernatant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Harvest Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: James R. Ellsworth
  • Publication number: 20120223027
    Abstract: Tube and float systems described herein facilitate removal of certain non-target materials in order to further isolation and extraction of a target material. The tube includes a re-sealable plug located in the base of the tube opposite the tube opening. The float is selected with a specific gravity to substantially match the specific gravity of the target material. When the tube, float and suspension are centrifuged for a period of time, the various materials separate into different layers along the axis of the tube according to specific gravity of each material. The plug located in the base of the tube enables non-target material layers located beneath the float to be extracted, which facilitates isolation and extraction of the target material located between the float and inner wall of the tube. The plug also allows other liquids to be injected into the tube from below the float.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Inventor: Jonathan Lundt
  • Patent number: 8236258
    Abstract: A method and apparatus can separate and concentrate a selected component from a multi-component material. The multi-component material may include a whole sample such as adipose tissue, whole blood, or the like. The apparatus generally includes a moveable piston positioned within a separation container and a withdrawal tube that is operable to interact with a distal end of the collection container past the piston. Material can be withdrawn through the withdrawal tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Michael D. Leach, James M. McKale
  • Publication number: 20120145652
    Abstract: A separator system operable to use centrifugation to fractionate a multiple component material, such as a suspension including blood, comprises a buoy. The buoy can be carried in a separation container and has a tuned density that is configured to reach an equilibrium position in the multiple component material. A guide surface is carried on a buoy upper surface and is inclined to an accumulation position near a buoy perimeter. The buoy suspension fractionation system can be used in a method of isolating a fraction from a suspension, and in a method for re-suspending particulates for withdrawal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2012
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Applicants: Hanuman LLC, Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Michael D. Leach, Randel Dorian, Jacy C. Hoeppner
  • Patent number: 8187477
    Abstract: A platelet collection device comprising a centrifugal spin-separator container with a cavity having a longitudinal inner surface. A float in the cavity has a base, a platelet collection surface above the base, an outer surface. The float density is below the density of erythrocytes and above the density of plasma. The platelet collection surface has a position on the float which places it below the level of platelets when the float is suspended in separated blood. During centrifugation, a layer of platelets or buffy coat collects closely adjacent the platelet collection surface. Movement of a float having a density greater than whole blood through the sedimenting erythrocytes releases entrapped platelets, increasing the platelet yield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignees: Hanuman, LLC, Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Randel Dorian, Scott R. King, Richard W. Storrs
  • Patent number: 8177072
    Abstract: A device for separating and isolating components of a biological fluid comprising a container for containing the fluid to be processed, a tube cap assembly for closing the container while providing filling and extraction communication therewith, a float assembly disposed within the container for funneling and controlling biological fluid flow into an inverted domed shaped isolation chamber within the float and controlling the biological fluid flow out of the isolation chamber for effecting an encapsulation or a sealed isolation of at least one component or fraction of the biological fluid flow within the isolation chamber during a centrifugation process. The device further comprising a flexible tube for connecting an extraction passageway disposed within the float assembly and an extraction valve of the tube cap assembly for allowing extraction of at least the one component or fraction encapsulated or isolated within the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: ThermoGenesis Corp.
    Inventors: John R. Chapman, Vijay Kumar, Brian K. Cinquini, Phillip D. Kingsley
  • Patent number: 8163184
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed that allows for separating and collecting a fraction of a sample. The apparatus, when used with a centrifuge, allows for the creation of at least three fractions in the apparatus. It also provides for a new method of extracting the buffy coat phase from a whole blood sample. A buoy system that may include a first buoy portion and a second buoy member operably interconnected may be used to form at least three fractions from a sample during a substantially single centrifugation process. Therefore, the separation of various fractions may be substantially quick and efficient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Michael D. Leach, Jennifer E. Woodell-May, Joel C. Higgins, Brandon Miller
  • Publication number: 20120085712
    Abstract: A filter apparatus includes a first sample material section. A second filter section, with a second filter, is connected with the first sample material section and a third filter section, with a third filter, is connected with the second filter section. A retaining vessel is provided within which the first sample material section, the second filter section and the third filter section fit and a lid is included that is conformed to connect with the retaining vessel such that the lid seals the retaining vessel when connected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2010
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Inventor: Joseph Anthony Moss
  • Patent number: 8153014
    Abstract: A mixture of single-walled carbon nanotubes (“SWNTs”) is separated into fractions of enriched chirality by preparing an aqueous suspension of a mixture of SWNTs and a surfactant, injecting a portion of the suspension on a column of separation medium having a density gradient, and centrifuging the column. In some embodiments, salt is added prior to centrifugation. In other embodiments, the centrifugation is performed at a temperature below room temperature. Fractions separate as colored bands in the column. The diameter of the separated SWNTs decreases with increasing density along the gradient of the column. The colored bands can be withdrawn separately from the column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Los Alamos National Security, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen K. Doorn, Sandip Niyogi