Including Plurality Of Miniature Bowls (e.g., Test Tubes) Distrubuted About Rotatable Carrier And Readily Removable Therefrom Patents (Class 494/16)
  • Patent number: 8336718
    Abstract: The present invention provides a centrifugal separation-use device capable of maintaining a centrifugal separation-use container in a clean state easily at low cost even when centrifugal separation treatment is carried out using a centrifugal separator in an unclean field. A centrifugal separation-use device 1 for collecting a target component by subjecting a solution containing multiple components to centrifugal separation treatment comprises an inner container 10 having a cylindrical section 12 for accommodating the solution and a plug 14 for hermetically sealing the cylindrical section and configured so as to accommodate the solution in a hermetically sealed state, and an outer container 20 having a support section 22 for removably accommodating the cylindrical section and a delivery section 24 for exposing part of the inner container so that the inner container can be removed, and configured so as to accommodate the inner container in a hermetically sealed state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Kyocera Medical Corporation
    Inventors: Noriyuki Shintani, Shuji Nosaka, Michihiro Yokokawa
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20120309636
    Abstract: The present invention provides systems, devices, and methods for point-of-care and/or distributed testing services. The methods and devices of the invention are directed toward automatic detection of analytes in a bodily fluid. The components of the device can be modified to allow for more flexible and robust use with the disclosed methods for a variety of medical, laboratory, and other applications. The systems, devices, and methods of the present invention can allow for effective use of samples by improved sample preparation and analysis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2012
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Inventors: Ian Gibbons, Anthony J. Nugent, Anthony Delacruz, Daniel Young, Elizabeth Holmes, Andrew Drake, Timothy Michael Kemp, Sunny Balwani, Chinmay Pangarkar
  • Patent number: 8323169
    Abstract: A fixed angle centrifuge rotor is provided. The rotor includes a rotor body having a circumferential sidewall and a plurality of tubular cavities. Each of the cavities has an open end and a closed end and is configured to receive a sample container therein. A pressure plate is operatively coupled to the plurality of tubular cavities so that the pressure plate, in combination with the plurality of tubular cavities, defines an enclosed hollow chamber between each adjacent pair of the plurality of tubular cavities. Each of the plurality of tubular cavities has a sidewall facing an interior of the rotor body and a bottom wall at the closed end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Fiberlite Centrifuge, LLC
    Inventor: Sina Piramoon
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8226536
    Abstract: High-throughput centrifugation of batches of samples is achieved by dividing a single centrifugation run of a batch of samples into two or more staggered, discrete spins with fewer samples and in which the availability of centrifuge slots for loading or unloading of samples and the subsequent delivery of experimental results can be enhanced. The methodology is particularly useful in situations where multiple samples need to be processed rapidly, for example, as part of a STAT blood typing program in urgent care facilities prior to blood transfusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Dee, Donald J. Moran, Jr., Mark Sawczuk, William G. Atterbury, Michael L. Marshall, Douglas E. Boyd
  • Patent number: 8221300
    Abstract: A centrifuge having two arcuate slots to receive resilient, bendable mounting flanges that each carry a plurality of test tubes in side by side relation. The resilience of the mounting flanges enables them to flex and assume either the curvature of the slot, or a linear configuration enabling the flanges to be suspended in a flat condition, such as on a test rack. The arrays of test tubes is attached to the flanges via living hinges that enable the flexing to occur. The advantages are that simplified identification of individual test tubes, as well as reduced likelihood of intermixing of spillage are realized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventors: Yury Sherman, Michael Sherman, Ian Glasgow
  • Publication number: 20120156177
    Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed for repairing injured, infected, or otherwise damaged connective tissues. Such repairs use injectable combinations of: (i) stromal precursor cells, which can be obtained from a patient via liposuction, and which can mature rapidly into muscle, ligament, tendon, or other types of connective tissue cells that are needed at a repair site; and (ii) platelets, which will accelerate and promote a repair process, and which can be obtained from the patient's blood. When mixed together, stromal precursor cells and platelet cells will act synergistically, to generate new tissue which can replace or repair damaged tissue. Devices and methods are disclosed for processing an already-centrifuged layer of “spun fat”, obtained from a liposuction extract, to remove unhelpful materials and concentrate the stromal precursor cells, before the stromal cells are mixed with platelet cells for injection into a patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Inventor: MICHAEL A. SCARPONE
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20120129673
    Abstract: The weight difference is limited between buckets (17) mounted at respective symmetrical positions with respect to a centrifugal separation rotational center and examination of samples is continuously performed in the order in which they are received. In particular, when a sample (21) is carried in a centrifugal buffer line (11), its weight is measured by weight measuring means (31). It is assumed that the names of two adaptors (22) placed at respective symmetrical positions with respect to the centrifugal separation rotational center are defined as an adaptor A and an adaptor B. A first sample is put on the adaptor A and a second sample is put on the adaptor B. Then, a third sample and subsequent ones are each put on the adaptor (22) lighter than the other adaptor after the total weights of samples put on the adaptors are computation-compared with each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2010
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Applicant: HITACHI HIGH-TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tatsuya Fukugaki, Hiroshi Oga, Shigemi Oba, Tetsuya Isobe, Kuniaki Onizawa
  • Patent number: 8167139
    Abstract: The invention includes compositions of stem and progenitor cells recovered from bone marrow or cord blood containing most of the viable CD34+ cells and substantially depleted of red blood cells resident in the original sample, without any xenobiotic additives to aid cell separation. The invention also includes a system and method for preparing the compositions. The system includes a bag set and a processing device, which utilizes an optical sensor, microcontroller, servo motor, accelerometer, load cell, and battery. The system and method utilize centrifugation to stratify the cells into layers and then separate and transfer the stem cells into a stem cell bag. The processing device's microcontroller receives input from the device's accelerometer, load cell and optical sensor to direct the metering valve in the bag set to open and close to permit the transfer of as many stems cells as possible with as few red cells as possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: ThermoGenesis Corp.
    Inventors: Philip H. Coelho, Bruce A. Baker, John R. Chapman, Junzhi Li, Prince Emmanuel, Robert S. Childers
  • Patent number: 8147392
    Abstract: A centrifuge rotor includes a rotor body having first and second axial ends and a circumferential sidewall extending therebetween. The rotor body has a plurality of wells for receiving sample containers to be processed in the rotor. The rotor further includes an elongate reinforcement extending around the circumferential sidewall of the rotor body along a helical path. At least two portions of the elongate reinforcement interlock at one or more specific points on the surface of the rotor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Fiberlite Centrifuge, LLC
    Inventors: Sina Piramoon, Alireza Piramoon
  • Publication number: 20120065047
    Abstract: The centrifugation vessel includes an outer wall containing an interior space. A dam defines a barrier which divides the interior space into at least two regions including a catch basin defining a higher gee region and a reservoir defining a lower gee region. These regions are joined together over the dam. The dam includes a face which is preferably tapered to enable optimization of speed of separation of a sample placed within the vessel. The vessel is usable in a biological sample processing method by having the higher gee region of the vessel configured to have an elongate form and the volume optimized for collection of a higher density fraction of the sample. Supply and withdrawal tubes extend into the regions for reliable extraction and separate collection of differing density fractions after separation by centrifugation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Inventors: John R. Chapman, Rodney Sparks, Philip H. Coelho
  • Patent number: 8105551
    Abstract: A microfluidic device and a method of fabricating the microfluidic device are provided. The microfluidic device includes: a platform including an upper substrate and a lower substrate that are bonded to face each other; a microfluidic structure obtained by forming grooves in the lower substrate; a lower substrate protrusion pattern including an outline protrusion that protrudes from the lower substrate toward the upper substrate along an outline of the microfluidic structure; and an adhesive layer disposed between the lower substrate protrusion pattern and the upper substrate in order to bond the upper substrate and the lower substrate to each other. The lower substrate protrusion pattern only supports the upper substrate, and remaining portions of the lower substrate except for the lower substrate protrusion pattern do not have structures for supporting the upper substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Jongmyeon Park, Jeonggun Lee
  • Publication number: 20110319247
    Abstract: A centrifuge sample container includes: a body portion configured to contain a sample; and a cap portion configured to be engaged with and attached on the body portion. The body portion has a substantially triangular external shape defining three apex portions and three side portions between two of the apex portions when viewed from above and has a circular opening portion in an upper portion of the body portion. Distances between centers of the apex portions are equal to one another. Each of the apex portions is formed with a first radius of curvature when viewed from above. Each of the side portions is formed into a outwardly curved arc-like shape with a second radius of curvature when viewed from above.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Applicant: HITACHI KOKI CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yoshimitsu KITAZAWA, Masaharu AIZAWA, Kenichi NEMOTO
  • Patent number: 8066127
    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 a device 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 device to control the operation of valves directing the collection of each component. The sensor may be reading one or more of the following characteristics: infrared, optics, density, weight, radioactive, fluorescence, color, magnetism, ultrasonic, capacitance wherein the characteristic is inherent in the blood and blood component or is an additive. Each component may then be separated into its own storage container. The preferred sensors include optics and weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: ThermoGenesis Corp.
    Inventors: Philip H. Coelho, Eric Sommer, Richard Klosinski, Jim Hobbs, Bruce Baker, Brian Malone
  • Patent number: 8057377
    Abstract: A bag loader for loading and unloading at least one satellite bag into and from the central compartment of a rotor of an apparatus for separating a composite liquid into at least two components comprises an upper part for removably securing an upper portion of at least one satellite bag; a lower part comprising a receptacle; and an intermediate part connecting the upper part to the lower part and exposing an intermediate portion of a satellite bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: CaridianBCT, Inc
    Inventors: Brian M. Holmes, Johan-Petter Hagström, Charles L. Hake
  • 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: 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
  • Publication number: 20110251041
    Abstract: A separation system for separating a multiple component material into at least two fractions. The separation system includes a separation device having a first end, a second end opposite to the first end, and a sidewall that extends between the first end and the second end to define a separation chamber having an interior volume. The system also includes a valve moveable between an open position and a closed position, the valve is mounted at a fixed location within the separation chamber at a position that is closer to the second end than to the first end and is spaced apart from the second end, the valve is operable to isolate a first fraction of the multiple component material having a first density on a first side of the valve from a second fraction having a second density on a second side of the valve that is opposite to the first side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Applicant: Biomet Biologics, LLC
    Inventors: Jason Chavarria, Michael D. Leach
  • 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: 8016737
    Abstract: Provided is a method for removing a liquid, in particular a supernatant, from a container with a sample, by creating an opening in a container with a sample consisting of solid constituents and a liquid, and subsequently centrifuging the container so as to cause the liquid to flow out of the container through the created opening. Also provided is a device for making a container suitable for use in the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Rijk Zwaan Zaadteelt en Zaadhandel B.V.
    Inventors: Jacobus Petrus Cornelis De Wit, Robert Helene Ghislain Dirks, Edwin Van Zon, Leendert Jacobus Woudenberg
  • Patent number: 8016736
    Abstract: A method for washing multiple units of blood product including providing a centrifuge having a wash cell for each unit of blood product, balancing the centrifuge to accommodate for differences in the wash cells, and transferring supernatant including any wash solution from each unit of blood product on the centrifuge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: CaridianBCT Biotechnologies, LLC
    Inventors: Dennis J. Hlavinka, Raymond P. Goodrich, Eric T. Hansen
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20110111942
    Abstract: A fixed angle centrifuge rotor is provided. The rotor includes a rotor body having a circumferential sidewall and a plurality of tubular cavities. Each of the cavities has an open end and a closed end and is configured to receive a sample container therein. A pressure plate is operatively coupled to the plurality of tubular cavities so that the pressure plate, in combination with the plurality of tubular cavities, defines an enclosed hollow chamber between each adjacent pair of the plurality of tubular cavities. Each of the plurality of tubular cavities has a sidewall facing an interior of the rotor body and a bottom wall at the closed end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2009
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Applicant: FIBERLITE CENTRIFUGE, LLC
    Inventor: Sina Piramoon
  • Patent number: 7897398
    Abstract: A device for analysis used for transferring a solution to a measurement spot 38 by a centrifugal force and reading in which a reaction liquid located at the measurement spot 38 is optically accessed. An operation cavity 30 and a receiving cavity 32 are arranged from the upstream side to the downstream side of the transfer. The operation cavity 30 and the receiving cavity 32 communicate with each other via a connection section 59 to transfer the solution of the operation cavity 30 to the receiving cavity 32. The connection section 59 is located inside the liquid level of a diluted solution retained in the operation cavity 30, relative to a rotation axis 102.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroshi Saiki
  • Publication number: 20100331163
    Abstract: A rotor includes a plurality of holding cavities for holding specimen containers, respectively. A transverse cross sectional shape of the holding cavity is a substantially triangular shape having one vertex on an inner circumference side of the rotor. Two vertices of the substantially triangular shape are arranged on an outer circumference side of the rotor so as to have equidistance from a rotary shaft of the rotor. Spacing between sides of the substantially triangular shape in a circumferential direction of the rotor gradually increase over 60% or more a radial length of the holding cavity from an innermost circumferential position to the outer circumference side of the rotor when viewed in its transverse plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Applicant: HITACHI KOKI CO. LTD.
    Inventors: Yoshimitsu KITAZAWA, Masaharu AIZAWA, Kenichi NEMOTO, Jun SATO
  • 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: 7824558
    Abstract: A centrifugal processing bag, system and method for separating the components of a mixed material is presented. The processing bag includes a hub and a first port for receiving the mixed material, where the first port includes an outlet positioned within the processing bag at a perimeter of the bag. The processing bag also including a second port having a second port inlet spaced proximate the hub and away from a central axis of the hub. The second port directs a separated material collected from the second port inlet out of the processing bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Velico Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Keith M. Rosiello
  • Patent number: 7815560
    Abstract: A centrifuge includes a frame, a door, a restricting part, a first spring member, and a second spring member. The frame has an opening on top thereof, when the frame is disposed in an orientation in which the frame is intended to be placed. The door is movably supported on the frame to be capable of opening and closing the opening. The restricting part is provided on the frame and defines a prescribed region. The first spring member has one end pivotally supported on the door, and another end pivotally supported on the frame. The second spring member has one end pivotally supported on the door, and another end that is movable within the prescribed region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Hitachi Koki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Hayasaka, Takahiro Shimizu, Yuki Shimizu
  • Patent number: 7806819
    Abstract: The invention relates to a rotor for laboratory centrifuges which is designed for accommodating at least one centrifugation container, and an adapter for accommodating a sample vessel and for use in a laboratory centrifuge rotor. The rotor has at least one hold-down element by which the at least one centrifugation container is held in the rotor and protected from axial displacement. In addition, a contact pressure may be produced on the at least one centrifugation container on the rotor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Thermo Electron LED GmbH
    Inventor: Frank Eigemeier
  • Publication number: 20100226902
    Abstract: An improved method for treating wounds with an enriched platelet composition is provided in which a small amount of a patient's blood is used to prepare, at point-of-care, a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) from which a gel is produced. The method involves the use of improved materials to improve the ease and speed at which wounds may be treated at the point-of-care.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Applicant: CYTOMEDIX, INC.
    Inventor: Carelyn P. Fylling
  • Patent number: 7775961
    Abstract: Centrifuge samples may be exposed to microwave energy to heat the samples during centrifugation and to promote separation of the different components or constituents of the samples using a centrifuge device configured for generating microwave energy and directing the microwave energy at a sample located in the centrifuge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC
    Inventor: David H. Meikrantz
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7766809
    Abstract: A method for separating at least two discrete volumes of a composite liquid into at least a first component and a second component, comprising centrifuging at least two separation bags containing two discrete volumes of a composite liquid respectively, so as to separate therein the first and second components; transferring at least one fraction of a first separated component from the separation bags into satellite bags connected thereto respectively; detecting a characteristic of a component at determined location in each separation bag; and stopping transferring the at least one fraction of the first component from each separation bag into the first satellite bag connected thereto, upon detection of the characteristic of a component at the determined location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: CaridianBCT, Inc.
    Inventors: Victor D. Dolecek, Daniel A. Joseph, Darryl Hudock
  • Patent number: 7722812
    Abstract: A reaction disk provides a compact and inexpensive design of an automatic analyzer so that the constituents in a suspension, such as blood sampled from a patient at a sick room or other place in a hospital, can be analyzed immediately and quantitatively. A separation cell and a determination cell are formed in a same reaction disk so as to maintain an upright position even during rotation of the both cells. The separation cell is formed to prevent poured suspension therein from flowing out during centrifugal separation, and a supernatant separated by centrifugation from the suspension contained in the separation cell is dispensed to the determination cell to analyze a target substance in the supernatant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuhito Tanimoto, Keiko Sasaki, Masayoshi Hayashi, Hishiri Komiyama
  • Patent number: 7674221
    Abstract: An apparatus for separating at least two discrete volumes of a composite liquid into at least a first component and a second component comprises a centrifuge, with a rotor having a rotation axis comprising at least two separation cells, each for containing a separation bag containing a volume of composite liquid; and first balancing elements for balancing the rotor when the respective weights of the at least two separation bags in the at least two separation cells are different.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: CaridianBCT, Inc.
    Inventors: Darryl Hudock, Daniel A. Joseph, Victor D. Dolecek
  • Patent number: 7651456
    Abstract: According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a rotor for a centrifuge which includes an annular portion having a plurality of storing portions each holding a sample vessel that contains a sample to be separated, the annular portion being provided with an end face portion at which holes of the storing portions are opened so as to be aligned in a circumferential direction thereof. Concave portions are disposed each between a corresponding pair of the adjacent holes on the end face portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Hitachi Koki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuki Shimizu, Shoji Kusumoto, Kenichi Nemoto
  • Patent number: 7645223
    Abstract: A handheld centrifuge includes an inertia body having an axle and a pair of inertia wheels coupled to the axle. The inertia wheels are coupled to the axle in substantially perpendicular direction to the axle, and spaced apart from each other. A string is connected to the axle. At least one closed vessel is detachably installed on an outer face of the inertia wheel to contain a substance to be centrifuged. The closed vessel is installed in substantially radial direction of the inertia wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kak Namkoong, Young-sun Lee, Kwang-wook Oh, Christopher Hansung Ko, Jung-Im Han
  • Patent number: 7582049
    Abstract: A centrifugal fluid separation system is disclosed for centrifugally separating a composite fluid into components thereof. This centrifugal separation system includes at least a centrifugal rotor which has a composite fluid containment area, a fluid flow channel/tubing and at least one separated component collection area defined therein. A composite fluid to be separated is delivered to the fluid containment area where under centrifugal forces the composite fluid is separated into components and then from which a component travels through an outlet channel to a respective separated component fluids flowing therethrough. A centrally disposed pump is also provided to move the separated component(s) to the collection area(s). Optical sensing of the interface of the separated fluid components may be used with a clamp to stop flow. A disposable bag and tubing system is also disclosed for use with reusable rotor devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: CaridianBCT, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis J. Hlavinka, William G Palsulich, Thomas J. Felt, Frank Corbin, III
  • Patent number: 7500942
    Abstract: A centrifugal separator is configured such that a switching unit adapted to be brought into electrical conduction or electrical nonconduction is electrically connected in a drive power supply line between a motor drive circuit of a control unit and a motor winding wire, and that the switching unit is controlled to be brought into nonconduction when a door is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignee: Hitachi Koki Co, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Takahashi, Masahiro Inaniwa, Sadato Igarashi
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7438679
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for balancing a centrifuge having interconnected hydraulic chambers in containers on a rotor, each container being adapted to receive a composite fluid, comprising transferring, by the rotation of the rotor, hydraulic liquid from a source to the interconnected hydraulic chambers to balance the centrifuge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: CaridianBCT Biotechnologies, LLC
    Inventors: Dennis J. Hlavinka, Eric T. Hansen
  • Patent number: 7419464
    Abstract: A rotor mounting structure arranged in a centrifugal separator. A cylindrical shaft having elastic tongue pieces provided substantially equidistantly on the peripheral edge of the upper surface of the cylindrical shaft is provided at the distal end of a drive shaft; the tongue pieces have hooks; a shaft accommodation orifice accommodates the cylindrical shaft is formed in the center of the rotor; elastic tongue piece insertion grooves mate with the elastic tongue pieces of the cylindrical shaft; the rotor is joined to the cylindrical shaft, while bending the elastic tongue pieces; and in a state in which the rotor is completely joined to the cylindrical shaft by engaging the hooks of the elastic tongue pieces with the upper edges of the grooves of the rotor by the elastic force of the elastic tongue pieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Tomy Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Souichirou Matusima
  • Patent number: 7396324
    Abstract: A centrifugal separator includes a rotator part, a controller part, and a first control panel. The rotator part has a rotor for separating components in a liquid sample, and a drive shaft for driving the rotor to rotate. The controller part controls operations of the rotator part. The first control panel is provided with a first operating part for setting operating conditions of the rotator part including the desired rotating speed of the rotor and the desired operation period of time of the rotor, and a first display unit for displaying the operating conditions and status of the rotator part. A second control panel having the same functions as the first control panel is provided in a location separate from the controller part. Hence, a user can check the operating status of the centrifugal separator and set and modify operating conditions for the centrifugal separator not only by using the first control panel but also by using the second control panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Hitachi Koki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenichi Tetsu, Masaharu Aizawa, Katsunori Akatsu, Yoshinori Tobita, Yukiyoshi Maehara
  • Patent number: 7371205
    Abstract: A rotor assembly for centrifuging reaction vessels containing reaction mixtures in a device for asymmetric heating and cooling of reaction mixtures during centrifugation. The rotor contains at least one fan blade used to force ambient gas to pass the reaction mixture. Also provided is a device for asymmetric heating and cooling of reaction mixtures during centrifugation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Alphahelix Molecular Diagnostics AB
    Inventors: Leif Andersson, Mats Malmqvist
  • Patent number: 7371206
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a rotor for laboratory centrifuges, the rotor including a rotor housing that is open to the top and at least one recess for taking up centrifuge containers, with the recess being formed in the peripheral area of the rotor as a concentric, circumferential ring trough having an inner wall and an outer wall and with the ring trough being stiffened in a spoke-type manner in such a way using centrifuge containers that are distributed radially and over the circumference of the ring trough that the centrifuge containers support the inner wall and the outer wall rigidly against one another. Furthermore, an adapter for receiving a sample container and for use in such a rotor is suggested.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Thermo Electron LED GmbH
    Inventors: Frank Eigemeier, Susanne Kroll, Raimund Grothaus
  • Patent number: 7367932
    Abstract: A structure in which when a rotating member is broken, an impact force is prevented from being concentrated to a local portion by enabling to receive a debris by a wide area at an instant and breaking energy can further be facilitated to consume. Further, according to a centrifuge attached with a cooler, the problem can be achieved to resolve by utilizing an insulating layer at an outer periphery of an evaporator as a space of deforming a guard cylinder when the rotating member is broken.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Assignee: Hitachi Koki Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshitaka Niinai
  • Patent number: 7331918
    Abstract: In a centrifugal separator, inside a housing opposed to a protector, a protruding member, which protrudes inside, is arranged at a position shifted from a shortest distance portion, the distance from the protector of which is the shortest, so that a spatial distance between the housing and the protector can be reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: Hitachi Koki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Hayasaka, Kazuhiko Murayama
  • Patent number: 7311652
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fixing device of a cover for a centrifuge rotor, a receiving chamber of the centrifuge rotor, which is driven using a drive unit, for receiving samples to be centrifuged being closable aerosol-tight using the cover. The fixing device is provided with an opening so that the drive unit is accessible through the fixing device and the cover without removing the cover. The present invention has the advantage that the rotor may be removed from the centrifuge and the rotor remains closed aerosol-tight at the same time. In addition, simple, one-handed operation is made possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Thermo Electron LED GmbH
    Inventor: Sebastian Henne