Apparatus and method for separating and concentrating fluids containing multiple components

摘要

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.

主权项

1. A method for separating at least one component of a multiple component material with a centrifugal force, the method comprising:
placing a first volume of a whole material into a container with a buoy separation system including a first buoy member spaced apart from a second buoy member and at least one of the first buoy member or the second buoy member fixed to a connection member; applying a force to the container including the buoy separation system and the first volume of the whole material, wherein applying the force to the container further operates to:
cause a valve to open to allow moving at least a portion of the first volume of the whole material through a passage defined within at least one of the first buoy member or the second buoy member;move at least a portion of a moveable sealing portion of the valve away from at least one of the first buoy member or the second buoy member during application of the force, wherein the moveable sealing portion moves towards a valve body that extends along the connection member and away from at least one of the first buoy member and the second buoy member to an unsealed position, wherein the sealing portion is angled relative to at least one of the first buoy member and the second buoy member in the unsealed position; andseparate at least a portion of one component of the multiple component material into a volume defined by the buoy separation system and the container after moving at least the portion of the first volume of the whole material through the passage; ceasing applying the force to allow the valve to close the passage defined within at least one of the first buoy member and the second buoy member; and withdrawing at least the portion through the connection member.