Centrifuge Float Assembly for Biological Fluid Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for separating biological fluids into components are inefficient, leading to substantial comingling of fractions and low recoveries of target cells like buffy coat, requiring laborious and time-consuming processes, and are not suitable for intraoperative use due to complexity and contamination risks.
Innovation Solution
A device with a float assembly that partitions a centrifuge tube into upper and lower volume zones and an isolation chamber, using valve mechanisms to control fluid circulation based on pressure differentials, allowing for closed-loop circulation and efficient isolation of target components during centrifugation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional centrifugation methods are used to separate biological fluids, then separation into components is achieved, but substantial comingling of fractions occurs and recovery rates of target cells are low
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the centrifugation chamber into multiple distinct zones (upper volume zone, lower volume zone, and isolation chamber) separated by float assemblies. This segmentation allows different blood components to be collected in separate zones based on their density, preventing comingling and improving both separation precision and recovery rates of target cells like buffy coat.
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional separation methods are used, then components are separated, but the process becomes laborious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary separation and isolation of target components during the centrifugation process itself. The float assemblies and valve mechanisms are pre-configured to automatically direct different density layers to appropriate collection zones, eliminating the need for subsequent manual manipulation and reducing overall process time while maintaining high separation precision.
3Manufacturing precision
If complex separation devices are used to improve separation efficiency, then component isolation improves, but device complexity and contamination risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs a nested structure where float assemblies with internal valve mechanisms are positioned within the centrifugation chamber. The floats contain movable partitions and valve systems that are housed within the float body itself, creating a compact integrated design that achieves high separation precision without requiring externally complex mechanisms, thereby reducing contamination risks.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances the recovery rates of target components by allowing multiple chances for capture and reduces the complexity of the process, making it more suitable for rapid, efficient use in clinical settings with improved reproducibility and reduced contamination.
Implementation Method 1
separating components of the biological fluid sample while isolating at least one target component from non-target components of the biological fluid sample based upon fluid component density differences
Implementation Method 2
a high density layer of red blood cells below the solid separator, a low density layer of plasma above the solid separator, and a buffy coat layer which defines an intermediate density layer
Implementation Method 3
controlling entry and exit of the biological fluid through the interior isolation chamber as a function of a first pressure differential of the biological fluid on the first valve means and a second pressure differential of the biological fluid on the second valve means
Data Source
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AI summary
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.