Isolating Layer Patents (Class 210/789)
  • Patent number: 8151996
    Abstract: Contemplated whole blood separators tubes include a curable composition with a density intermediate to the density of serum and the cell-containing fraction. After centrifugation, the curable composition is located between the serum and the cell-containing fraction and preferably irradiated with UV light to initiate a curing reaction in which the curable composition solidifies to a barrier that is immobilized and resistant to breakdown at freezing temperatures and extended storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventor: Jane Emerson
  • Publication number: 20120074073
    Abstract: A concentrator is used for concentrating a fluid, particularly a plasma component out of blood, for treatment of a patient. The concentrator apparatus includes a main housing defining a centrifuge chamber, that also holds the filter. The concentrator allows viewing of the fluid after centrifuging, with an outlet port positionable at a height corresponding to the level of the fraction of the fluid to be further concentrated. Once the fluid is centrifuged, a portion of the fluid is drawn through the outlet, and then pressured past the filter to further concentrate the fluid using the same vessel as used for centrifuging. The same plunger is preferably used to draw centrifuged fluid from the centrifuge chamber as to pressure the centrifuged fluid past the filter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: Circle Biologics, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Coull, Matthew Kyle, Louis S. Kidder
  • Patent number: 8119013
    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: October 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignees: Hanuman, LLC, Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Michael D. Leach, Randel Dorian, Jacy C. Hoeppner
  • Patent number: 8105495
    Abstract: A process for separating platelet rich plasma from a blood sample using a platelet rich plasma separator system is disclosed. The system includes an inner wall having a top edge and a central axis that is surrounded by a depth filter having a capacity to receive all of the erythrocytes in the blood sample, where an inner surface of the inner wall has an angle of about 0.2° from the central axis of the inner wall. The process includes spinning the inner cylinder at its central axis at a speed that separates the erythrocytes from plasma and platelets and causes the erythrocytes to collect against an inner surface of the depth filter. The cylinder is continually spun for a sufficient time to allow substantially all of the erythrocytes to flow up the inner surface and over the top edge into the depth filter, leaving platelet enriched plasma (PRP) in the inner cylinder, such that upon discontinuing the spinning, permits the platelet enriched plasma to flow to the bottom of the inner cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignees: Hanuman, LLC, Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Randel Dorian, Michael D. Leach
  • Patent number: 8096422
    Abstract: Disclosed is a separator-concentrator, such as for separating and concentrating platelet-rich-plasma (PRP) from whole blood that is suitable for office use or emergency use for trauma victims. The PRP separator comprises a motorized centrifugal separation assembly and a concentrator assembly. The centrifugal separation assembly comprises a centrifugal drum separator and a motor having a drive axis connected to the centrifugal drum separator. The concentrator assembly comprises a water-removal module for preparing PRP concentrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignees: Hanuman LLC, Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Randel Dorian, Michael D. Leach
  • Patent number: 8062534
    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: December 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Joel C. Higgins, Matthew Swift, Nathan Gordon, Barry F. Hecker
  • Patent number: 8048321
    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. 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: August 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Michael D. Leach, Jennifer E. Woodell-May, Joel C. Higgins, Brandon Miller
  • Patent number: 8048297
    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: May 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Michael D. Leach, James M. Mckale
  • Patent number: 8048320
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for separating and concentrating 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: June 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Biomet Manufacturing Corp.
    Inventors: Michael D. Leach, James M. McKale
  • Patent number: 8040505
    Abstract: A device for separating at least part of the liquid component of a blood sample and methods thereof are disclosed. Generally, the device includes a container body for receiving the blood sample, a layer of retaining porous material, a layer of separating permeable material. The retaining porous material retains non-liquid components of the blood sample after the non-liquid components have been subjected to centrifugal force which forces them through the separating permeable material into the retaining porous material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Claudius Burkhardt, Hans-Peter Wahl
  • Patent number: 8021630
    Abstract: An anticoagulant-coated dipstick is selectively receivable by the central fill port of a rotor of a blood centrifuge. The dipstick includes an elongated, rod-like member having a first axial end and an opposite second axial end, and a cap affixed to the second axial end. At least a portion of a surface of the rod-like member is coated with an anticoagulant. The elongated rod-like member of the dipstick is dimensioned in length and diameter to be receivable through the central fill port of the rotor to contact a blood sample contained therein. The cap is circular in shape, with a diameter that is greater than that of the rotor fill port to entirely cover and seal the fill port to prevent leakage therethrough of a blood sample contained in the rotor, especially when the rotor is gently agitated or inverted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventor: Alyssa J. Dassa
  • Patent number: 7992725
    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: April 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Michael D. Leach, Randel Dorian, Jacy C. Hoeppner
  • Patent number: 7971730
    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: November 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventor: Jane Emerson
  • Patent number: 7954646
    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. 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: August 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Michael D. Leach, Jennifer E. Woodell-May, Joel C. Higgins, Brandon Miller
  • Patent number: 7918350
    Abstract: A separation apparatus and method are employed using a separation channel for rotation about an axis. Such channel includes radially spaced apart inner and outer side wall portions and an end wall portion. An inlet conveys fluid into the channel. A barrier is located in the channel intermediate of the inner and outer side wall portions. A first flow path communicates between upstream and downstream sides of the barrier. A collection region may be located downstream of the barrier for communication with the first flow path. An outer side wall section of the channel may be positioned radially outward of an upstream section thereof. The barrier may join the outer side wall portion along a substantial portion of an axial length of the channel. First and second exit flow paths may allow communication with the channel either upstream or downstream of the barrier or both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Fenwal, Inc.
    Inventors: Kyungyoon Min, Richard I. Brown, Alp Akonur, Julie Moriarty
  • Patent number: 7914689
    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: May 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Joel C. Higgins, Michael D. Leach, Jennifer E. Woodell-May, Brandon Miller
  • Patent number: 7897054
    Abstract: A flexible, disposable centrifuge bag for receiving and holding a fluid sample, comprising one or more tubes and upper and lower flexible sheets having doughnut shaped configurations. The upper and lower sheets are superimposed and completely sealed together at their outer perimeters to define an outer perimeter of the centrifuge bag. The inner perimeter of the bag defines a central core. The tubes are sandwiched between the upper and lower sheets and extend from the central core of the centrifuge bag. The upper and lower sheets are sealed together at their inner perimeters such that the tubes are sealed between said upper and lower sheets at the inner perimeter. The bag may be used to harvest platelet rich plasma from whole blood in either a batch method or while simultaneously infusing additional aliquots of whole blood into the bag during centrifugation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Arteriocyte Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Victor D. Dolecek, David Malcolm
  • Publication number: 20110036786
    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: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2008
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Applicant: Harvest Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: James R. Ellsworth
  • Patent number: 7887702
    Abstract: A filtering apparatus is provided for filtering raw water containing various impurities and mixtures into purified water, and more particularly, a multistage filtering apparatus is provided in which a rotor for generating vortex are installed in each of multiple layers of filtration membrane stacked within a closed barrel and the rotors are formed in multistage by having different diameter of each rotor so that the power for generating vortex can be remarkably minimized by generating the vertical vortex from top and bottom of the rotary rotor and the horizontal vortex from the outer side of circumference plate of the rotary rotor to be crossed over between membranes to prevent from blocking the pores or remove the deposited pollutants, and the closed-type barrel having multistage of membranes, rotary shaft, and rotary rotors for vortex generation within are constructed as a single module of filter pack, and the filter pack is connected and extended in accordance with required purified capacity so that large s
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Boo-Kang Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Gi Taek Park, Sang Wook Kim, Dong-Woo Kim
  • Publication number: 20110017669
    Abstract: A concentrator is used for concentrating a fluid, particularly a plasma component out of blood, for treatment of a patient. The concentrator apparatus includes a main housing defining a centrifuge chamber, that also holds the filter. The concentrator allows viewing of the fluid after centrifuging, with an outlet port positionable at a height corresponding to the level of the fraction of the fluid to be further concentrated. Once the fluid is centrifuged, a portion of the fluid is drawn through the outlet, and then pressured past the filter to further concentrate the fluid using the same vessel as used for centrifuging. The same plunger is preferably used to draw centrifuged fluid from the centrifuge chamber as to pressure the centrifuged fluid past the filter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2010
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Applicant: Circle Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas Coull, Matthew R. Kyle, Louis S. Kidder
  • Publication number: 20100314335
    Abstract: Contemplated whole blood separators tubes include a curable composition with a density intermediate to the density of serum and the cell-containing fraction. After centrifugation, the curable composition is located between the serum and the cell-containing fraction and preferably irradiated with UV light to initiate a curing reaction in which the curable composition solidifies to a barrier that is immobilized and resistant to breakdown at freezing temperatures and extended storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
    Inventor: Jane F. Emerson
  • Patent number: 7845499
    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: May 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Joel C. Higgins, Matthew Swift, Nathan Gordon, Barry F. Hecker
  • Patent number: 7837884
    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: December 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Hanuman, LLC
    Inventors: Randel Dorian, Scott R. King, Richard Wood Storrs
  • Patent number: 7832566
    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: May 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Michael D. Leach, Joel C. Higgins, Matthew Swift, Nathan Gordon
  • Patent number: 7824559
    Abstract: A PRP separator-concentrator comprising a housing, a separation assembly, and a concentration assembly. The concentration assembly has a concentration sump. An axially concentric rigid stationary outlet tube is secured to the housing and extends through the separation assembly to the sump. The separation assembly is attached to and positioned above the concentration assembly to form a combined separator-concentrator assemblage that is rotatable about the outlet tube. The separation assembly includes a separation chamber lined with a depth filter having pores and passageways that are sized to receive and entrap erythrocytes during centrifuging. The concentration chamber has a floor for supporting desiccated beads and a wall with at least one opening closed with a screen. The concentrator can have a distribution of upright screen supports, the upright screen supports having an inner surface and an outer surface, the cylindrical screen being supported on the outer surface of the upright screen supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignees: Hanumann, LLC, Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Randel Dorian, Michael D. Leach
  • Publication number: 20100230367
    Abstract: The liquid treatment device comprises the nozzle with the throat, the confuser inlet chamber and the diffuser outlet chamber. The vortex cylinder with end-to-end cyclonic ports is coupled to the confuser chamber. The cavitation generator, the shaped head part of which is inserted in the nozzle, is secured axially to the said cylinder with possibility of axial travel. Axisymmetrical internal and external shells and correspondingly are built in the diffuser outlet chamber forming the annular channel in between. During treatment the liquid homogeneous mixture while passing through the cavitation zone is “heterogenized” by both wave slamming, generated with cavitation bubbles collapse, and by bubble generation. Partial “micro-cracking” takes place—bond opening with highly active radical and decreased molecular weight hydrocarbon generation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2010
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Applicant: Rint Corporation
    Inventors: Andrei Vjacheslavovich Nevedeev, Vladimir Danilovich Cherkas, Andrey Dmitrievich Zhukov, Anton Viktorovich Danilov-Daniljan
  • Patent number: 7789245
    Abstract: A blood separation chamber is provided for separating blood into its constituent parts by rotation about an axis. The chamber has a central hub coinciding with the axis and spaced apart high-G and low-G walls which define therebetween a separation channel. The chamber further includes a plurality of parallel radial walls extending outwardly from the central hub and defining a radial fluid flow passage between each adjacent pair of walls. Each fluid flow passage communicates between the central hub and the separation channel. One of the radial walls includes a radially outer end portion defining a barrier in the separation channel intermediate the low-G and high-G walls and having generally parallel upstream and downstream sides. The separation channel has a recessed portion located radially outward of the high-G wall and extending between the upstream and downstream sides of the barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: Fenwal, Inc.
    Inventors: Tom Westberg, Kelly B Smith, Michel L. F. Joie
  • Patent number: 7780861
    Abstract: Contemplated whole blood separators tubes include a curable composition with a density intermediate to the density of serum and the cell-containing fraction. After centrifugation, the curable composition is located between the serum and the cell-containing fraction and preferably irradiated with UV light to initiate a curing reaction in which the curable composition solidifies to a barrier that is immobilized and resistant to breakdown at freezing temperatures and extended storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: The Regents of University of California
    Inventor: Jane Emerson
  • Patent number: 7780860
    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: May 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Joel C. Higgins, Michael D. Leach, Jennifer E. Woodell-May, Brandon Miller
  • Patent number: 7771590
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for separating and concentrating 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: August 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Biomet Manufacturing Corp.
    Inventors: Michael D. Leach, James M. McKale
  • Publication number: 20100155343
    Abstract: A mechanical separator for separating a fluid sample into first and second phases is disclosed. The mechanical separator includes a float having a first portion and a second portion, a ballast circumferentially disposed about a section of the float, and a deformable bellows defining an open passageway extending between a first end and a second end. The ballast is longitudinally moveable with respect to the float and engaged with the deformable bellows between the first end and the second end. At least a portion of the float is transitionable from a restraint position to a sealed position through the first end of the bellows. The first portion of the float can be positioned within the interior of the deformable bellows in the restraint position, and the first portion of the float can be positioned at an exterior location longitudinally displaced from the deformable bellows in the sealed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Applicant: BECTON, DICKINSON AND COMPANY
    Inventors: Christopher A. Battles, C. Mark Newby
  • Publication number: 20100108619
    Abstract: Contemplated whole blood separators tubes include a curable composition with a density intermediate to the density of serum and the cell-containing fraction. After centrifugation, the curable composition is located between the serum and the cell-containing fraction and preferably irradiated with UV light to initiate a curing reaction in which the curable composition solidifies to a barrier that is immobilized and resistant to breakdown at freezing temperatures and extended storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2010
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
    Inventor: Jane F. Emerson
  • Patent number: 7673758
    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 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventor: Jane Emerson
  • Patent number: 7674388
    Abstract: Contemplated whole blood separators tubes include a curable composition with a density intermediate to the density of serum and the cell-containing fraction. After centrifugation, the curable composition is located between the serum and the cell-containing fraction and preferably irradiated with UV light to initiate a curing reaction in which the curable composition solidifies to a barrier that is immobilized and resistant to breakdown at freezing temperatures and extended storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Jane F. Emerson
  • Patent number: 7662298
    Abstract: The separation of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs), by chirality and/or diameter, using centrifugation of compositions of SWNTs in and surface active components in density gradient media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Northwestern University
    Inventors: Mark C. Hersam, Samuel I. Stupp, Michael S. Arnold
  • Publication number: 20100012598
    Abstract: A device and method is provided 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 an elastic portion and a plug member. A fluid sample is delivered to the container and the device is subjected to centrifugation whereby the centrifugal load causes the elastic portion of the separator to deform so that the separator migrates into the fluid sample and stabilizes between the heavier and lighter fractions of the fluid sample. The elastic portion of the separator will resiliently return to its initial configuration upon termination of the centrifugal load such that the elastic portion sealingly engages the container and separates the heavier and lighter fractions of the fluid sample.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2009
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Applicant: BECTON, DICKINSON AND COMPANY
    Inventors: Paul C. DiCesare, Richmond Cohen
  • Publication number: 20090242490
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for separating a multiphase fluid stream comprising a heavier fluid component and a lighter fluid component, the method comprising causing the fluid to flow along a first helical flowpath, the first helical flowpath having a first pitch, the first helical flowpath being sufficiently long to establish a stabilised rotating fluid flow pattern for the stream causing the uniform rotating fluid to flow along a second helical flowpath, the second helical flowpath having a second pitch, wherein the second pitch is greater than the first pitch; and removing the lighter fluid from a radially inner region of the second helical flowpath. An apparatus for carrying out the method is also disclosed. The method and apparatus are particular suitable for the separation of oil droplets from water, especially from water for reinjection into a subterranean formation as part of an oil and gas production operation. The method and apparatus are conveniently applied on a modular basis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Applicant: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hans Paul Hopper
  • Patent number: 7588692
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and system that separates first particles from second particles, or white blood cells from red blood cells, by sedimentation in a fluid chamber with debulking of one of the first or second particles or red blood cells through the inlet of the fluid chamber. The method and system further includes fractionation of the remaining particles or white blood cells into selected subsets. In one embodiment of the instant invention a blood product containing white blood cells is loaded in a separation chamber, a diluting or sedimenting agent is added to encourage rouleaux formation of any red blood cells, the cells are sedimented and the red blood cells are removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: CaridianBCT, Inc.
    Inventors: Glenn Delbert Antwiler, Linda A. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20090114608
    Abstract: A fluid analytical device is provided comprising a body, a reservoir, an inlet channel and a separation unit. The reservoir is formed on the body. The inlet channel is formed on the body connected to the reservoir. The separation unit is formed on the body connected to the inlet channel, which comprises a pile area, a collecting area and a spacer. The collecting area is located between the pile area and the reservoir. The spacer is formed between the pile area and the collecting area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2008
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Applicant: INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Chung-Hsien Tsai, Cheng-Shiu Chung, Wen-Pin Hsieh
  • Publication number: 20090039000
    Abstract: The present invention is directed generally to devices and methods for controlling fluid flow in meso-scale fluidic components in a programmable manner. Specifically, the present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for placing two microfluidic components in fluid communication at an arbitrary position and time, both of which are externally defined. The inventive apparatus uses electromagnetic radiation to perforate a material layer having selected adsorptive properties. The perforation of the material layer allows the fluid communication between microfluidic components allowing volumetric quantitation of fluids. Using the perforation of the material functionality such as metering and multiplexing are achieved on a microscale. This functionality is achieved through basic operations, like dosimeters filling, dosimeters purging, dosimeters extraction, dosimeters ventilation and channels routing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2006
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Applicant: SpinX, Inc.
    Inventors: Piero Zucchelli, Bart Van de Vyver
  • Patent number: 7470371
    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. Platelets are then removed from 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: October 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Hanuman LLC
    Inventors: Randel Dorian, Scott R. King, Richard Wood Storrs
  • Publication number: 20080283474
    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: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicants: BIOMET BIOLOGICS, LLC, HANUMAN LLC
    Inventors: Michael D. Leach, Randel Dorian, Jacy C. Hoeppner
  • Publication number: 20080217265
    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: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Applicant: Biomet Manufacturing Corp.
    Inventors: Michael Leach, Jennifer E. Woodell-May, Joel C. Higgins, Brandon Miller
  • Patent number: 7396452
    Abstract: An apparatus comprises an inlet to convey a first fluid comprising first and second components having different density into a rotating chamber such that an interface forms between at least portions of such components at a first location. At least one outlet removes at least one of the first and second components. A controller is adapted to introduce the first fluid and is operable to move the interface from the first location to a second location and to move the interface from the second location in a direction toward the first location and to return the interface to the second location. The controller is operable to determine a flow rate of the first or second component based, at least in part, on the time interval between when the interface moves from and returns to the second location. At least one sensing assembly is adapted to sense the location of the interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Fenwal, Inc.
    Inventors: Kyungyoon Min, Richard I. Brown
  • Patent number: 7374678
    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. 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: September 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Biomet Biologics, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Leach, Jennifer E. Woodell-May, Joel C. Higgins, Brandon Miller
  • Patent number: 7297272
    Abstract: A separation apparatus and method are employed using a separation channel for rotation about an axis. Such channel includes radially spaced apart inner and outer side wall portions and an end wall portion. An inlet conveys fluid into the channel. A barrier is located in the channel intermediate of the inner and outer side wall portions. A first flow path communicates between upstream and downstream sides of the barrier. A collection region may be located downstream of the barrier for communication with the first flow path. An outer side wall section of the channel may be positioned radially outward of an upstream section thereof. The barrier may join the outer side wall portion along a substantial portion of an axial length of the channel. First and second exit flow paths may allow communication with the channel either upstream or downstream of the barrier or both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Fenwal, Inc.
    Inventors: Kyungyoon Min, Richard I. Brown, Alp Akonur
  • Patent number: 7241281
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for collecting whole blood and then separating it into components for subsequent use or storage. A self-contained bag set is used to collect the sample, which may then be placed into container adapted to fit into a centrifuge for separation of components. Each component is then sequentially extracted according to density, with a sensor present in the container to control the operation of valves directing the collection of each component. Each component may then be separated into its own storage container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Assignee: ThermoGenesis Corporation
    Inventors: Philip H. Coelho, Eric Sommer, Richard Klosinski, Jim Hobbs
  • Patent number: 7223346
    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. Platelets are then removed from 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: April 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: Hanuman LLC
    Inventors: Randel Dorian, Scott R. King, Richard Wood Storrs
  • Patent number: 7201848
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and system that separates first particles from second particles, or white blood cells from red blood cells, by sedimentation in a fluid chamber with debulking of one of the first or second particles or red blood cells through the inlet of the fluid chamber. The method and system further includes fractionation of the remaining particles or white blood cells into selected subsets. In one embodiment of the instant invention a blood product containing white blood cells is loaded in a separation chamber, a diluting or sedimenting agent is added to encourage rouleaux formation of any red blood cells, the cells are sedimented and the red blood cells are removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Assignee: Gambro BCT, Inc.
    Inventors: Glen Delbert Antwiler, Linda A. Taylor
  • Patent number: 7186231
    Abstract: An object is to provide a blood component collection system capable of collecting a desired blood component of high quality. A blood component collection system 1 comprises a centrifugal separator 20 centrifuging blood into a plurality of components, first line 21 for feeding the blood to the centrifugal separator 20, a second line 22 for releasing the blood component from the centrifugal separator 20, a temporary reservoir bag 26? for temporarily reserving the platelet concentrate, a leukoreduction filter 261 for separating and reducing leukocyte from the platelet concentrate, and a platelet collection bag 26 for reserving the platelet concentrate having passed through the leukoreduction filter 261.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Terumo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshiki Takagi, Shigeyuki Kimura