Variable Rate Centrifuge for Complete Platelet Collection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for separating platelets from pooled buffy coats are inefficient, resulting in a reduced total volume of collected platelets due to incomplete removal from the separation chamber.
Innovation Solution
A biological fluid processing system and method that involves operating a centrifuge at different rotation rates to separate buffy coats into platelets and red blood cells, with a first portion of platelets collected at a higher rotation rate and a second portion collected at a lower rotation rate after re-introducing collected red blood cells into the centrifuge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a single centrifuge rotation rate is used to separate platelets from buffy coat, then the separation process is simple and quick, but the total volume of collected platelets is reduced due to incomplete removal from the separation chamber
Solution Approach 1:
The centrifugation process is segmented into multiple stages with different rotation rates. A first rotation rate is used for initial separation, then a second, lower rotation rate is used to gently remove remaining platelets from the separation chamber. This segmentation allows complete platelet collection while maintaining process simplicity through structured multi-stage operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The centrifuge rotation rate is dynamically adjusted during the process. The system transitions from a higher first rotation rate to a lower second rotation rate, allowing the centrifugation process to adapt to different separation needs at different times, thereby maximizing platelet recovery without excessive complexity.
2Productivity
If a high centrifuge rotation rate is used to separate platelets, then separation efficiency is improved, but platelets remain trapped in the separation chamber and cannot be fully collected
Solution Approach 1:
The centrifugation employs periodic action through sequential rotation rates. First, a high rotation rate efficiently separates platelets, then the system switches to a lower rotation rate to periodically gently flush remaining platelets from the chamber. This periodic rate change pattern ensures both high separation efficiency and complete platelet collection.
Solution Approach 2:
The centrifuge operates with parameter changes in rotation rate. The system uses a first rotation rate for initial efficient separation, then changes to a second, lower rotation rate to enable complete platelet removal. This parameter change strategy resolves the contradiction between separation efficiency and complete collection.
3Ease of operation
If the centrifuge operates at a constant rotation rate throughout the process, then the operation is simple and consistent, but platelet collection is incomplete
Solution Approach 1:
The centrifuge operation transitions from static (constant rotation rate) to dynamic (variable rotation rates). By implementing a first rotation rate followed by a second, lower rotation rate, the system maintains ease of operation through automated rate transitions while achieving complete platelet collection that would be impossible at a single constant rate.
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 allows for a more complete collection of platelets, increasing the volume of the platelet product compared to conventional techniques by optimizing the centrifugation process through varying rotation rates.
Implementation Method 1
The centrifuge rotates the separation chamber of the disposable flow circuit during processing, causing the heavier (greater specific gravity) components of the whole blood in the separation chamber, such as red blood cells, to move radially outwardly away from the center of rotation toward the outer or 'high-G' wall of the separation chamber. The lighter (lower specific gravity) components, such as plasma, migrate toward the inner or 'low-G' wall of the separation chamber.
Implementation Method 2
The centrifuge is operated at a first rotation rate to separate the buffy coat into platelets and red blood cells
Data Source
AI summary
A biological fluid processing device includes pump and valve systems, a centrifuge and a controller. The controller is configured to operate the pump and valve systems to convey buffy coat into the centrifuge, operate the centrifuge at a first rotation rate to separate the buffy coat into platelets and red blood cells, operate the pump and valve systems to convey a first portion of the separated platelets from the centrifuge for collection, and operate the pump and valve systems to convey the separated red blood cells from the centrifuge for collection. The controller is further configured to operate the centrifuge at one or more second rotation rates lower than the first rotation rate, operate the pump and valve systems to convey the collected red blood cells into the centrifuge, and operate the pump and valve systems to convey a second portion of the platelets from the centrifuge for collection.