Secure data storage

Methods and systems for obscuring the location of critical system files are provided. In particular, the locations of files stored within a file system are selected by applying various inputs to a hash algorithm. For system files, the inputs applied to the hash algorithm can include a user name and password. For data files, the information provided to the hash algorithm can include the file name. In addition to providing random file locations, a file system in accordance with embodiments of the present invention can homogenize other information, including file names, sizes and creation dates.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SINGLE NEEDLE CONTINUOUS PLASMA PROCESSING

Certain examples describe systems and methods for increasing plasma extracted from donor blood. An example method includes receiving blood extracted from a donor connected to a blood collection machine. The example method includes filtering the blood using a filtration device to remove at least a portion of plasma included in the blood to separate the plasma removed from remaining blood. The example method includes routing the plasma removed for collection. The example method includes re-filtering the remaining blood using a or the filtration device to remove additional plasma from the remaining blood. The example method includes routing the additional plasma removed for collection. 122-. (canceled)23. A blood processing system comprising:a first separation device; anda second separation device, wherein the first separation device is adapted to receive blood from a blood source and separate the blood into a fluid containing a targeted component and an aggregate fluid containing a non-targeted component and the targeted component, and the second separation device is adapted to receive the aggregate fluid and to separate an additional amount of the same targeted component from the non-targeted component.24. The system of claim 23 , wherein the first separation device is adapted to be a master separation device and the second separation device is adapted to be a slave separation device.25. The system of claim 24 , wherein the slave separation device comprises a partial separation device including a separation sub-assembly.26. The system of claim 25 , wherein the separation sub-assembly of the slave separation device comprises a motor spinner drive assembly modularly attached to the master separation device.27. The system of claim 24 , wherein the master separation device is to be retrofit to add on the slave separation device.28. The system of claim 23 , wherein the first and second separation devices reside in separate blood processing instruments and are connected to ...

MEMBRANE SEPARATION DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS EMPLOYING SAME, AND DATA MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS

A membrane separation device is disclosed along with systems and methods employing the device in blood processing procedures. In one embodiment, a spinning membrane separator is provided in which at least two zones or regions are created in the gap between the membrane and the shell, such that mixing of the fluid between the two regions is inhibited by a radial rib associated with the membrane that decreases the gap between the membrane and the shell to define two fluid regions, the ridge isolating the fluid in the two regions to minimize mixing between the two. Automated systems and methods are disclosed for separating a unit of previously collected whole blood into components, such as concentrated red cells and plasma, for collecting red cells and plasma directly from a donor in a single pass, and for cell washing. Data management systems and methods and priming methods are also disclosed. 1. An automated whole blood separation system comprising a disposable fluid flow circuit and a durable controller configured to cooperate with and control flow through the fluid circuit , the disposable fluid circuit comprising:a whole blood fluid flow path with a whole blood inlet for connection to a unit of whole blood;a cell preservation solution flow path with an inlet for connection to a source of cell preservation solution;a separator including outer housing and inner rotor mounted within the housing for rotation relative to the housing, a gap being defined between an outer surface of the rotor and an inner surface of the housing, at least one of the outer surface of the rotor or inner surface of the housing comprising a filter membrane configured to allow the passage of plasma therethrough while substantially blocking red cells, the outer housing including an inlet in fluid communication with the whole blood and/or cell preservation solution flow paths and in flow communication with the gap for directing whole blood and/or cell preservation solution into the gap, the ...

MEMBRANE SEPARATION DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS EMPLOYING SAME, AND DATA MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS

A membrane separation device is disclosed along with systems and methods employing the device in blood processing procedures. In one embodiment, a spinning membrane separator is provided in which at least two zones or regions are created in the gap between the membrane and the shell, such that mixing of the fluid between the two regions is inhibited by a radial rib associated with the membrane that decreases the gap between the membrane and the shell to define two fluid regions, the ridge isolating the fluid in the two regions to minimize mixing between the two. Automated systems and methods are disclosed for separating a unit of previously collected whole blood into components, such as concentrated red cells and plasma, for collecting red cells and plasma directly from a donor in a single pass, and for cell washing. Data management systems and methods and priming methods are also disclosed. 1. A method for priming a spinning membrane separator in which the separator comprises a housing with a top and a bottom , at least one port adjacent each of the top and the bottom of the housing , and a membrane configured to spin about a generally vertically-oriented axis , the method comprising:introducing a priming solution through the port at the bottom of the housing;flowing additional priming solution through the port at the bottom of the housing so that a priming solution-air interface is formed that advances upwardly through the housing to displace air within the housing and to expel the air through the port at the top of the housing, and to simultaneously wet the membrane; andcontinuing to flow additional priming solution through the port at the bottom of the housing until the fluid-air interface has advanced vertically across the entire membrane.2. The method of wherein the priming solution comprises a low-viscosity non-biological fluid.3. A method of wherein the priming solution comprises whole blood.4. A method for priming a membrane separator in which the separator ...

MEMBRANE SEPARATION DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS EMPLOYING SAME, AND DATA MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS

A membrane separation device is disclosed along with systems and methods employing the device in blood processing procedures. In one embodiment, a spinning membrane separator is provided in which at least two zones or regions are created in the gap between the membrane and the shell, such that mixing of the fluid between the two regions is inhibited by a radial rib associated with the membrane that decreases the gap between the membrane and the shell to define two fluid regions, the ridge isolating the fluid in the two regions to minimize mixing between the two. Automated systems and methods are disclosed for separating a unit of previously collected whole blood into components, such as concentrated red cells and plasma, for collecting red cells and plasma directly from a donor in a single pass, and for cell washing. Data management systems and methods and priming methods are also disclosed. 1. A single pass automated blood collection system for collecting red blood cells and plasma from a donor comprising:a reusable hardware component; anda pre-assembled disposable fluid circuit component configured to interface with the hardware component, the disposable component comprising:a donor access device for withdrawing whole blood from a donor;a source of anticoagulant communicating with the donor access device;a blood separation device communicating with the access device and employing relatively rotating surface, at least one of which carries a membrane substantially permeable to plasma and substantially impermeable to red blood cells to separate the whole blood into substantially concentrated red cells and plasma;a first collection container communicating with the blood separation chamber for receipt of the substantially concentrated red blood cells;a source of preservative solution communicating with the first collection container; anda second collection container communicating with the blood separation chamber for receipt of the plasma.2. The automated blood ...

MEMBRANE SEPARATION DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS EMPLOYING SAME AND DATA MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS

A membrane separation device for use in blood processing procedures is disclosed. In one embodiment, a spinning membrane separator is provided in which at least two zones or regions are created in the gap between the spinning membrane and the shell, such that mixing of the fluid between the two regions is inhibited by a radial rib or ridge associated with the spinning membrane that decreases the gap between the spinning membrane and the shell to define two fluid regions, the ridge isolating the fluid in the two regions to minimize mixing between the two. Automated systems and methods are disclosed for separating a unit of previously collected whole blood into selected blood components, such as concentrated red cells and plasma, for collecting red cells and plasma directly from a donor in a single pass, and for cell washing. Data management systems and methods and priming methods are also disclosed. 1. A blood filtration device comprising:a generally cylindrical housing having an interior wall;an interior member mounted interior of the housing and having an external surface;the interior wall of the housing and/or the external surface of the interior member including a porous membrane spaced apart from the facing wall of the housing or surface of the interior member so as to define an annular gap therebetween;the housing and interior member being relatively rotatable;an inlet for directing whole blood comprising plasma and red cells into the annular gap;a first outlet for directing plasma passing through the membrane to a collection container; anda second outlet for directing from the annular gap the remaining blood components;wherein the membrane has a surface area sufficient to separate plasma at a flow rate resulting in the residence time of red blood cells within the annular gap being insufficient to cause undue hemolysis.2. The blood filtration device of wherein the interior member has a diameter greater than the diameter of the inner member of prior art devices ...

Tuned Mass-Spring Damper

A wheel/hub assembly includes an axle shaft, a wheel, and a hub supporting the wheel on the axle shaft. The wheel/hub assembly has a target resonant frequency of vibration. A tuned mass-spring damper is vibrationally coupled to the wheel/hub assembly, and has a counteracting resonant frequency of vibration that is predetermined with reference to the target resonant frequency of vibration. 1. An apparatus comprising:a wheel/hub assembly including an axle shaft, a wheel, and a hub supporting the wheel on the axle shaft, the wheel/hub assembly having a target resonant frequency of vibration; anda tuned mass-spring damper vibrationally coupled to the wheel/hub assembly and having a counteracting resonant frequency of vibration that is predetermined with reference to the target resonant frequency of vibration;wherein the wheel/hub assembly includes a CV joint, and the damper is coupled to the wheel/hub assembly through a bearing on the CV joint.2. An apparatus as defined in claim 1 , wherein the damper is configured as a circumferentially continuous ring and is mounted concentrically on the CV joint.3. An apparatus as defined in claim 1 , wherein the counteracting resonant frequency is equal to the target resonant frequency.4. An apparatus as defined in claim 1 , wherein the damper is configured in distinct portions of elastic material having properties of density and stiffness that are predetermined with reference to the counteracting resonant frequency.5. An apparatus as defined in claim 4 , wherein the distinct portions of elastic material include a first portion having stiffness predetermined with reference to the counteracting resonant frequency claim 4 , and a second portion having density predetermined with reference to the counteracting resonant frequency.6. An apparatus comprising:a wheel/hub assembly including an axle shaft, a wheel, and a hub supporting the wheel on the axle shaft, the wheel/hub assembly having a target resonant frequency of vibration; anda ...

Flexible metallic web elements for non-pneumatic tire

A non-pneumatic tire includes an inner ring, an outer ring, and a plurality of bent metal spokes. The non-pneumatic tire further includes a first overmolded foot at a first end of each bent metal spoke. Each first overmolded foot is attached to the inner ring. The non-pneumatic tire also includes a second overmolded foot at a second end of each bent metal spoke. Each first overmolded foot is attached to the outer ring.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MONITORING A FLUID PROCEDURE USING HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE

A computer-implemented method comprises providing a fluid circuit comprising fluid pathways configured to mount and associate with a durable processing device comprising a pressure sensor in communication with a controller and a fluid pathway. A container is connected to the pressure sensor and may receive a volume of fluid. A change in pressure values between a first and second time is measured from when the volume of fluid is not in communication with the pressure sensor to when the volume of fluid is in communication with the pressure sensor, the volume of fluid within the container or a presence or absence of a fluid connection to the fluid pathway based on the change in pressure values is determined, and a response action is executed if the volume of fluid within the container is not within an authorized volume range for the time period, or if a fluid connection is unauthorized. 1. A fluid processing system for monitoring fluid flow in a medical fluid procedure , comprising:a fluid circuit comprising a plurality of fluid pathways configured to mount and associate with a durable processing device controlled by a programmable controller, wherein the durable processing device comprises a pressure sensor in communication with the programmable controller and a fluid pathway;a container part of the fluid circuit configured for fluid communication with the pressure sensor and configured to receive a volume of fluid; initiate a phase of the medical fluid procedure associated by the controller with a plurality of ranges of pressure values authorized at specific times for the pressure sensor;', 'receive a first pressure value from the pressure sensor measured at a first time during the phase when the volume of fluid is not in fluid communication with the pressure sensor;', 'receive a second pressure value from the pressure sensor measured at a second time during the phase when the volume of fluid is in fluid communication with the pressure sensor;', 'compare a difference ...

Systems and methods for automated recovery of white blood cells after producing a leuko-reduced blood product

The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for the separation of blood into blood products and, more particularly, to systems and methods that permit automated recovery of white blood cells after producing a leukocyte-reduced blood product.

TIRE TREAD WITH A BAND LAYER

A non-pneumatic tire includes an inner ring having an axis of rotation and an outer ring coaxial with the inner ring. The non-pneumatic tire further includes support structure extending from the inner ring to the outer ring and a circumferential tread extending about the outer ring. The circumferential tread includes a band layer constructed of a single material and a tread rubber layer directly attached to the band layer. 1. A non-pneumatic tire comprising:an inner ring having an axis of rotation;an outer ring coaxial with the inner ring;support structure extending from the inner ring to the outer ring; anda circumferential tread extending about the outer ring, the circumferential tread including a band layer constructed of a single material and a tread rubber layer directly attached to the band layer.2. The non-pneumatic tire of claim 1 , wherein the band layer is directly attached to the outer ring.3. The non-pneumatic tire of claim 1 , wherein the single material of the band layer is a metal material.4. The non-pneumatic tire of claim 1 , wherein the single material of the band layer is a polymeric material.5. The non-pneumatic tire of claim 1 , wherein the single material has an ultimate tensile strength of at least 410 MPa.6. The non-pneumatic tire of claim 1 , wherein the single material has an ultimate tensile strength of at least 830 MPa.7. The non-pneumatic tire of claim 1 , wherein the single material has an ultimate tensile strength of at least 1400 MPa.8. The non-pneumatic tire of claim 1 , wherein the single material has a surface with an average surface roughness of less than 25 microns.9. The non-pneumatic tire of claim 1 , wherein the single material has a surface with an average surface roughness of less than 1.6 microns.10. The non-pneumatic tire of claim 1 , wherein the single material has a surface with an average surface roughness of less than 0.8 microns.11. A method of making a non-pneumatic tire claim 1 , the method comprising:providing an ...

TIRE TREAD BAND WITH SHIM LAYERS

A non-pneumatic tire includes an inner ring having an axis of rotation and an outer ring coaxial with the inner ring. The non-pneumatic tire further includes support structure extending from the inner ring to the outer ring and a circumferential tread extending about the outer ring. The circumferential tread includes a shear element. The shear element includes a lower shim layer of solid material, an upper shim layer of solid material, and an elastic layer disposed between the lower shim layer and the upper shim layer. The elastic layer has a higher elasticity than the lower shim layer and the upper shim layer. 1. A non-pneumatic tire comprising:an inner ring having an axis of rotation;an outer ring coaxial with the inner ring;support structure extending from the inner ring to the outer ring; and wherein the shear element includes a lower shim layer, the lower shim layer being a solid layer of material,', 'wherein the shear element includes an upper shim layer, the upper shim layer being a solid layer of material, and', 'wherein the shear element includes an elastic layer disposed between the lower shim layer and the upper shim layer, the elastic layer having a higher elasticity than the lower shim layer and the upper shim layer., 'a circumferential tread extending about the outer ring, the circumferential tread including a shear element,'}2. The non-pneumatic tire of claim 1 , wherein the lower shim layer is constructed of steel.3. The non-pneumatic tire of claim 1 , wherein the upper shim layer is constructed of steel.4. The non-pneumatic tire of claim 1 , further comprising a first middle shim layer and a second middle shim layer.5. The non-pneumatic tire of claim 4 , wherein the elastic layer includes:a lower elastic layer disposed between the lower shim layer and the first middle shim layer;a middle elastic layer disposed between the first middle shim layer and the second middle shim layer; andan upper elastic layer disposed between the second middle shim layer ...

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PROCESSING AND PRODUCING AUTOLOGOUS PLATELET-RICH PLASMA

A system and method are provided, including an integrated single-use kit, for processing whole blood to produce platelet rich plasma. A two stage spinning membrane separator, has a first stage for receiving whole blood and separating substantially all red blood cells from plasma and platelets, and a second stage for further separating platelet rich plasma from plasma. A first waste container is in fluid communication with the first stage of the separator for receiving separated red blood cells, while a second waste container is in fluid communication with the second stage of the separator for receiving separated plasma. An outlet line is in fluid communication with the second stage of the separator for receiving platelet rich plasma, and a reinfusion container is removably connected to the outlet line for receiving platelet rich plasma from the second stage of the separator. 1. A closed , preassembled and pre-sterilized apparatus for batch processing of blood to provide a concentrated platelet product , comprising:a blood inlet;a first gap defined between spaced-apart first inner and first outer relatively rotatable surfaces, the first gap being in fluid communication with the inlet and at least one of the first inner and first outer surfaces comprising a first filter membrane that substantially blocks red blood cells from passing therethrough, while allowing platelets and plasma to pass therethrough;a second gap defined between spaced-apart second inner and second outer relatively rotatable surfaces, at least one of the second inner and second outer comprising a second filter membrane that substantially blocks platelets from passing therethrough while allowing plasma to pass therethrough;the apparatus being configured so that the second gap receives plasma and platelets passing through the first filter membrane;a drive assembly for causing relative rotational movement between the first inner and first outer surfaces and between the second inner and second outer ...

Breast milk derived progenitor cells and cell systems

The present invention discloses novel markers for cell types found in breastmilk. Moreover, genes associated with various stages of lactation are identified and in vitro alveolar-like organoid models derived from breastmilk cells are disclosed. Methods of screening modulating agents with the alveolar-like organoid model are also provided. Therapeutic targets for controlling differentiation, proliferation, maintenance and/or function of the cell types disclosed herein, as well as novel cell types and methods of quantitating, detecting and isolating the cell types are disclosed.

SYSTEM AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING MEMBRANE FLUID FLOW USING FLUID OUTPUT

A computer-implemented method for controlling fluid flow rates during a biological fluid procedure, comprising providing a membrane separator configured to separate a biological fluid into filtrate and retentate, wherein concentration of retentate exiting the membrane separator is controllable by altering a flow rate of the retentate exiting the membrane separator. The computer-implemented method also comprises detecting a change of attenuated retentate particles within the filtrate, comparing the change of attenuated retentate particles within the filtrate with a threshold level, and providing a response action comprising altering the concentration of retentate exiting the membrane separator if the change of attenuated retentate particles within the filtrate exceeds the threshold level. 1. A computer-implemented method for controlling fluid flow rates during a biological fluid procedure , comprising:providing a membrane separator configured to separate a biological fluid into filtrate and retentate, wherein concentration of retentate exiting the membrane separator is controllable by altering a flow rate of the retentate exiting the membrane separator;detecting a change of attenuated retentate particles within the filtrate;comparing the change of attenuated retentate particles within the filtrate with a threshold level; andproviding a response action comprising altering the concentration of retentate exiting the membrane separator if the change of attenuated retentate particles within the filtrate exceeds the threshold level.2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , wherein the biological fluid comprises blood claim 1 , the filtrate comprises plasma claim 1 , the retentate comprises cellular components claim 1 , and the attenuated retentate particles comprise free hemoglobin.3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , further comprising detecting the change of attenuated retentate particles within the filtrate with an optical sensor.4. The computer- ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USING FREQUENCY ANALYSIS TO MONITOR FLOW RATES

A system for controlling a fluid procedure comprising a reusable separation apparatus controlled by a microprocessing controller. A sterile circuit is configured to associate with the reusable separation apparatus and provide a first fluid flow path in association with a pressure sensor in communication with the controller and a first pump configured to transmit pulsatile pressure signals to the pressure sensor during operation in association with the first fluid flow path. The reusable apparatus and the controller are configured to receive from the pressure sensor pressure signals comprising the pulsatile pressure signals, perform a frequency analysis of the pressure signals received by the pressure sensor over a time duration, derive a first rotation rate of the first pump or a first fluid flow rate at the first pump from the frequency analysis, and provide a response action based on the first rotation rate or the first fluid flow rate. 1. A system for monitoring and controlling a fluid procedure , the system comprising:a reusable separation apparatus controlled by a microprocessing controller, wherein the reusable separation apparatus comprises a pressure sensor in communication with the controller;a sterile circuit configured to associate with the reusable separation apparatus and provide a first fluid flow path in association with the pressure sensor and a first pump configured to transmit pulsatile pressure signals to the pressure sensor during operation in association with the first fluid flow path; 1) receive from the pressure sensor one or more pressure signals comprising the pulsatile pressure signals transmitted by the first pump;', '2) perform a frequency analysis of the one or more pressure signals received by the pressure sensor over a time duration;', '3) derive a first rotation rate of the first pump or a first fluid flow rate at the first pump from the frequency analysis; and', '4) provide at least one response action based on the first rotation ...

Systems And Methods For Deriving And Collecting Platelet Products

Systems and methods are provided for deriving a platelet product from a plurality of buffy coats. A plurality of buffy coats are separately collected, for example, using a conventional floor centrifuge. Plasma and/or a platelet additive solution may be added to the buffy coats. The buffy coats are pooled into a container and conveyed into a centrifuge or are sequentially conveyed into the centrifuge without being pooled, where they are continuously processed to separate platelets from the other cellular blood components. The separated platelets are conveyed out of the centrifuge as a platelet product, which may be passed through a leukocyte removal filter to reduce the white blood cell content of the platelet product. By continuously separating the buffy coats, fewer buffy coats are required to produce a single-dose platelet product, while also allowing for the derivation and collection of a plurality of single-dose platelet products. 1. A method of deriving a platelet product from a plurality of buffy coats comprising:conveying a plurality of buffy coats into a centrifuge;continuously separating platelets from other cellular blood components of the plurality of buffy coats in the centrifuge; andcollecting the separated platelets as a platelet product.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising adding plasma or platelet additive solution to said plurality of buffy coats before conveying said plurality of buffy coats into the centrifuge.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising conveying said separated platelets through a leukocyte removal filter before collecting the separated platelets as a platelet product.4. The method of claim 1 , whereinsaid conveying said plurality of buffy coats into the centrifuge includes conveying said plurality of buffy coats into a rigid separation chamber.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein said conveying said plurality of buffy coats into the centrifuge includes conveying said plurality buffy coats into a flexible separation ...

Adjustment Of The Position Of The Light Source Of A Detection Assembly

A fluid processing device includes a detection assembly having a light source, an adjustment system, and a light detector. The light source is associated with a component of the fluid processing device, provided in an initial position with respect to said component of the fluid processing device, and configured to emit a light. The adjustment system is associated with the light source and configured to adjust the position of the light source. The light detector is configured to receive at least a portion of the light from the light source and generate a signal indicative of the amount of light received by the light detector. The fluid processing device further includes a controller configured to receive the signal from the light detector and control the adjustment system to move the light source to a monitoring position based at least in part on the signal. 1. A fluid processing device , comprising:{'claim-text': ['a light source associated with a component of the fluid processing device, provided in an initial position with respect to said component of the fluid processing device, and configured to emit a light,', 'an adjustment system associated with the light source and configured to adjust the position of the light source with respect to said component of the fluid processing device, and', 'a light detector configured to receive at least a portion of the light from the light source and generate a signal indicative of the amount of light received by the light detector; and'], '#text': 'a detection assembly including'}a controller configured to receive the signal from the light detector and control the adjustment system to move the light source with respect to said component of the fluid processing device to a monitoring position based at least in part on the signal.2. The fluid processing device of claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured to(a) receive and analyze the signal from the light detector,(b) control the adjustment system to move the light source ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MECHANICALLY OPENING A CONNECTION SITE

Method and apparatus are disclosed for mechanically opening a heat-bonded connection site between two hollow, flexible, thermoplastic segments of a medical fluid flow path, the heat-bonded connection site having an axis. The connection site is compressed between two facing surfaces, and the facing surfaces are relatively moved to rotate the connection site about the connection site axis and to apply force to the connection site substantially perpendicular to the connection site axis. 1. A connection system comprising a connection forming apparatus for forming a heat-bonded connection site between two hollow , flexible , thermoplastic segments of a medical fluid flow path , the heat-bonded connection site having an axis , and a connection site opening station for opening the heat-bonded connection site , wherein the connection site opening station includes:at least two facing surfaces that can be spaced apart sufficiently to receive the two segments and the heat bonded connection site between the facing surfaces;the facing surfaces being relatively movable to rotate the connection site about the connection site axis and apply force to the connection site substantially perpendicular to the connection site axis.2. The connection system of in which one of the facing surfaces is substantially stationary and the other of the facing surfaces is movable with at least two degrees of freedom.3. The connection system of in which each of the facing surfaces is movable with at least one degree of freedom.4. The connection system of in which at least one of the facing surfaces is generally cylindrical.5. The connection system of in which at least one of the facing surfaces is generally planar.6. The connection system of in which at least one of the facing surfaces is movable with at least one degree of freedom in one direction and the other facing surface is movable with at least one degree of freedom in a different direction.7. The connection system of in which the different ...

METHOD FOR CONTROLLING FOULING AND COMPLEMENT PROTEIN ACTIVATION DURING SPINNING MEMBRANE FILTRATION OF PLASMA FROM WHOLE BLOOD

A system and method are provided for controlling fouling and complement protein activation during separation of plasma from whole blood using a spinning membrane separator. The separator includes a pair of relatively rotating surfaces spaced apart to define a gap therebetween, with at least one of the surfaces comprising a membrane that allows plasma to pass therethrough but substantially prevents the passage of red cells. In accordance with the method, the membrane material and membrane fabrication technique are selected so as that the resulting membrane both resists fouling and complement protein activation. In a specific embodiment, the membrane is has a smooth surface and substantially linear pores. The pores have a nominal diameter of less than 2 microns (so as to exclude platelets) and preferably a diameter of from 0.6 microns to 0.8 microns, as may be obtained by use of track-etching. In addition, the membrane material preferably is polycarbonate, as it has been determined that polycarbonate does not activate complement proteins. 1. An automated whole blood separation system comprising a disposable fluid flow circuit and a durable controller configured to cooperate with and control flow through the fluid circuit , the disposable fluid circuit comprising:a whole blood fluid flow path with a whole blood inlet for connection to a source of whole blood;a separator including outer housing and inner rotor mounted within the housing for rotation relative to the housing, a gap being defined between an outer surface of the rotor and an inner surface of the housing, at least one of the outer surface of the rotor or inner surface of the housing comprising a filter membrane configured to allow the passage of plasma therethrough while substantially blocking cellular components, the membrane having a smooth surface and substantially linear pores with a nominal diameter of 2.0 microns or less, the outer housing including an inlet in fluid communication with the whole blood ...

Systems and methods for monitoring a tire for a puncture

This disclosure relates to an approach for monitoring a tire for a puncture based on a change in a voltage established based on a resistance of a material disposed within the tire. In one example, the material is a conductive material layer. In another example, the material is a resistive strip. The systems and methods described herein can monitor for a change in an established voltage over time that is a function of parameters including the resistance of the conductive material layer or the resistive strip, and an applied voltage, to provide an indication of the change in the resistance in the material. The change in resistance of the material can be indicative of the puncture within the tire. The systems and methods described herein can alert a vehicle operator of the puncture within the tire.

Membrane separation and washing devices, systems and methods employing same, and data management systems and methods

A method of separating blood into two or more components and subsequently washing a component, comprising providing a blood storage container containing an initial blood composition, and a blood separation circuit comprising a separator. The method also comprises separating and washing cellular material within the same blood separation circuit.

Liquid pumping cassettes and associated pressure distribution manifold and related methods

A fluid-handling cassette comprising a plurality of diaphragm valves and pumps is configured to have its actuation ports located along a thin or narrow edge of the cassette. Actuation channels within the cassette lead from the actuation ports to actuation chambers of the valves and pumps in a space between plates that comprise the cassette. The individual plates have a nominal thickness that is sufficient to provide a rigid ceiling for the actuation channels, but sufficiently thin to minimize the overall thickness of the cassette. The cassette can be plugged into or unplugged from an actuation receptacle or a manifold by its narrow edge. A plurality of such cassettes can be stacked together or spaced apart from each other to form a cassette assembly, providing for a convenient way to install and remove the cassette assembly from its actuation receptacle. The arrangement allows for an improved way of connecting a complex cassette assembly to its associated pressure distribution manifold without the use of a plurality of flexible connecting tubes between the two.

Systems Enabling Alternative Approaches To Therapeutic Red Blood Cell Exchange And/Or Therapeutic Plasma Exchange

Systems and methods are provided for therapeutic red blood cell exchange and/or therapeutic plasma exchange. A blood separation device includes a centrifugal separator, a spinning membrane separator drive unit, a pump system, and a controller. Blood is conveyed through a fluid flow circuit into either the centrifugal separator or the spinning membrane separator, which separates out the target blood component (red blood cells, in the case of therapeutic red blood cell exchange, or plasma, in the case of therapeutic plasma exchange). The target blood component is retained in the circuit as a waste product, while a replacement fluid is added to the remaining blood component(s), which is then conveyed to a recipient. In addition to allowing for execution of an exchange procedure using either a centrifugal separator or a spinning membrane separator drive unit, the blood separation device also allows for the use of differently sized spinning membrane separators.

Optical Mixing Of Fluids

A fluid to be optically monitored may be optically mixed to modify the apparent color perceived by a colorimetric optical sensor device. The fluid is positioned within a fluid compartment of a vessel also including a contrast compartment adjacent to the fluid compartment. The contrast compartment is configured to have a contrast color with a known main wavelength that is different from the main wavelength of the fluid color. Light from a broadband light source of the colorimetric optical sensor device is reflected off of the vessel, with the received light being received by an optical spectrometer. The optical spectrometer analyzes the received light to determine a main wavelength of the received light, followed by a controller determining a characteristic of the fluid, which is based on the main wavelengths of the received light and the contrast color and the percentage of the vessel occupied by the fluid compartment. 110-. (canceled)11. A system for determining a characteristic of a fluid , comprising a fluid compartment configured to receive a fluid having a fluid color with a main wavelength, and', 'a contrast compartment positioned directly adjacent to the fluid compartment and configured to have a contrast color with a known main wavelength different from the main wavelength of the fluid color; and, 'a vessel including'} a broadband light source configured to emit a light, with at least a portion of the light being exposed to at least a portion of the vessel and reflected by the fluid compartment and the contrast compartment,', 'an optical spectrometer configured to receive at least a portion of the reflected light and analyze at least a portion of the received light to determine a main wavelength of said at least a portion of the received light, and', 'a controller configured to determine a characteristic of the fluid based at least in part on the main wavelength of the received light, the main wavelength of the contrast color, and the percentage of said at ...

Blood Separation Systems And Methods Employing Centrifugal And Spinning Membrane Separation Techniques

Systems and methods are provided for separating blood into two or more components. A blood separation system includes a blood separation device and a fluid flow circuit configured to be mounted to the blood separation device. The blood separation device includes a centrifugal separator and a spinning membrane separator drive unit incorporated into a common case, which allows for fluid separation by two different methods. Depending on the separation procedure to be carried out, the fluid flow circuit paired with the blood separation device may include only one separation chamber configured to be mounted to the centrifugal separator or spinning membrane separator drive unit or two separation chambers, with one being mounted to the centrifugal separator and the other to the spinning membrane separator drive unit. The system may be used to separate and collect any combination of red blood cells, plasma, and platelets. 1. A blood separation device comprising:a centrifugal separator;a spinning membrane separator drive unit; anda controller configured and/or programmed to control the operation of the centrifugal separator and the spinning membrane separator drive unit, wherein the centrifugal separator and the spinning membrane separator drive unit are incorporated into a case.2. The blood separation device of claim 1 , further comprising first and second pumps claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured and/or programmed tocontrol the centrifugal separator to separate blood into two or more blood components,control the first pump to recirculate a portion of one of the blood components into the centrifugal separator with blood entering the centrifugal separator, andcontrol the second pump to convey another portion of said one of the blood components into the spinning membrane separator drive unit to separate said another portion of said one of the blood components into two or more sub-components.3. The blood separation device of claim 1 , further comprising an interface ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING OUTLET FLOW OF A DEVICE FOR SEPARATING CELLULAR SUSPENSIONS

A system for separating a suspension of biological cells is disclosed comprising a single-use fluid circuit and a durable hardware component. The fluid circuit comprises a separator having a housing that includes an inlet for introducing the suspension of biological cells into the gap, a first outlet in communication with the gap for flowing a first type of cells from the separator, and a second outlet in communication with the second side of the filter membrane for flowing a second type of cells from the separator. The hardware component comprises a pump for flowing the suspension of biological cells to the inlet of the separator and at least one flow control device associated with the first outlet and the second outlet of the separator for selectively opening and closing the outlets so as to permit one of the first type of cells and the second type of cells to flow out of the separator in accordance with a predetermined duty cycle equal to the ratio of a target flow rate of first type of cells through the first outlet to the predetermined inlet flow rate. 1. A method for separating a suspension of biological cells using a system comprising a fluid circuit comprising a separator having a housing with an inlet for introducing the suspension of biological cells into the separator , a first outlet in communication with the separator for flowing a first type of cells from the separator and a second outlet in communication with separator for flowing a second type of cells from the separator , and a hardware component comprising a pump for flowing the suspension of biological cells to the inlet of the separator , at least one flow control device associated with the first outlet and the second outlet of the separator for selectively opening and closing the first and second outlets so as to permit one of the first type of cells and the second type of cells to flow out of the separator , the method comprising:a) operating the pump so as to flow the suspension of biological ...

Power control system with clutch braking function

A control system for operating a work vehicle powertrain includes an engine configured to generate power for an output shaft. The control system includes a transmission positioned operatively between the engine and the output shaft and configured to selectively transfer the power along a power flow path between the engine and the output shaft. The transmission includes an input shaft; at least one intermediate shaft; at least one directional clutch; and intermediate clutches configured for selective engagement to transfer power between the at least one intermediate shaft and the output shaft. A controller is configured to receive a vehicle stop request to stop the work vehicle; implement, upon receiving the vehicle stop request, a clutch braking function; and generate, upon the implementation of the clutch braking function, clutch commands to engage at least two of the intermediate clutches selected such that the output shaft is slowed and stopped.

System and Method for Controlling Outlet Flow of a Device for Separating Cellular Suspensions

A system for separating a suspension of biological cells is disclosed comprising a single-use fluid circuit and a durable hardware component. The fluid circuit comprises a separator having a housing that includes an inlet for introducing the suspension of biological cells into the gap, a first outlet in communication with the gap for flowing a first type of cells from the separator, and a second outlet in communication with the second side of the filter membrane for flowing a second type of cells from the separator. The hardware component comprises a pump for flowing the suspension of biological cells to the inlet of the separator and at least one flow control device associated with the first outlet and the second outlet of the separator for selectively opening and closing the outlets so as to permit one of the first type of cells and the second type of cells to flow out of the separator in accordance with a predetermined duty cycle equal to the ratio of a target flow rate of first type of cells through the first outlet to the predetermined inlet flow rate. 1. A method for separating a suspension of biological cells comprising at least one type of cells suspended in a non-cellular fluid using a system comprising a fluid circuit comprising a separator having a housing with an inlet for introducing the suspension of biological cells into the separator , a first outlet in communication with the separator for flowing the cells from the separator and a second outlet in communication with separator for flowing the non-cellular fluid from the separator , and a hardware component comprising a pump for flowing the suspension of biological cells to the inlet of the separator , at least one flow control device associated with the first outlet and the second outlet of the separator for selectively opening and closing the first and second outlets so as to permit the cells and the non-cellular fluid to flow out of the separator , the method comprising:a) operating the pump so as ...

Collection, Genome Editing, And Washing Of T-Cell Lymphocytes

Blood from a blood source is drawn into a fluid flow circuit. A mononuclear cell product is separated from the blood, followed by at least a portion of the mononuclear cell product being conveyed into an electroporation device without disconnecting the blood source from the fluid flow circuit. The electroporation device opens pores in a membrane of at least one of the cells of the mononuclear cell product to allow DNA material (which is added to the mononuclear cell product prior to electroporation) to enter and modify the genome of the cell. At least a portion of the modified mononuclear cell product is returned to the blood source. The mononuclear cell product may be washed prior to being conveyed into the electroporation device. The modified mononuclear cell product may be washed after exiting the electroporation device. 1. A fluid processing system , comprising:a separation device;an electroporation device;a pump assembly including a plurality of pumps; and actuate the pump assembly to convey blood from a blood source into the separation device,', 'actuate the separation device to separate a mononuclear cell product from the blood,', 'actuate the pump assembly to convey at least a portion of the mononuclear cell product into the electroporation device to modify a genome of at least one of the cells of the mononuclear cell product, and', 'actuate the pump assembly to convey at least a portion of the modified mononuclear cell product to the blood source., 'a controller configured to'}2. The fluid processing system of claim 1 , wherein the separation device comprises a centrifuge.3. The fluid processing system of claim 1 , further comprising a second separation device configured to be actuated by the controller to wash the mononuclear cell product and/or the modified mononuclear cell product.4. The fluid processing system of claim 3 , wherein the controller is configured to actuate the second separation device to wash the mononuclear cell product prior to actuating ...

Collection Of Mononuclear Cells And Peripheral Blood Stem Cells

Blood in a separation chamber is separated into a red blood cell layer, a plasma constituent, and a mononuclear cell-containing layer. A portion of the plasma constituent exits the chamber via a plasma outlet, while a first portion of the red blood cell layer exits via a red blood cell outlet. A second portion of the red blood cell layer exits the chamber via the red blood cell outlet and is collected. At least a portion of the collected red blood cell layer may then be conveyed to the chamber via the red blood cell outlet to convey at least a portion of the mononuclear cell-containing layer out of the chamber via the plasma outlet for collection. A second portion of the plasma constituent may be conveyed out of the chamber via the plasma outlet to more fully collect the mononuclear cell-containing layer without the use of collected plasma. 1. A fluid processing system , comprising:a centrifuge configured to receive a separation chamber of a fluid processing assembly;a plurality of pumps configured to convey fluids through the fluid processing assembly; and actuate at least one of the plurality of pumps to convey blood into the centrifuge via an inlet,', 'actuate the centrifuge to separate the blood in the centrifuge into a red blood cell layer, a plasma constituent, and a mononuclear cell-containing layer,', 'actuate at least one of the plurality of pumps to convey a portion of the plasma constituent from the centrifuge via a plasma outlet and to convey a first portion of the red blood cell layer from the centrifuge via a red blood cell outlet while allowing a volume of the mononuclear cell-containing layer to increase in the centrifuge,', 'actuate at least one of the plurality of pumps to convey a second portion of the red blood cell layer from the centrifuge via the red blood cell outlet to a red blood cell collection container of the fluid processing assembly, and', 'actuate at least one of the plurality of pumps to convey at least a portion of the contents of ...

MEMBRANE SEPARATION DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS EMPLOYING SAME, AND DATA MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS

A membrane separation device is disclosed along with systems and methods employing the device in blood processing procedures. In one embodiment, a spinning membrane separator is provided in which at least two zones or regions are created in the gap between the membrane and the shell, such that mixing of the fluid between the two regions is inhibited by a radial rib associated with the membrane that decreases the gap between the membrane and the shell to define two fluid regions, the ridge isolating the fluid in the two regions to minimize mixing between the two. Automated systems and methods are disclosed for separating a unit of previously collected whole blood into components, such as concentrated red cells and plasma, for collecting red cells and plasma directly from a donor in a single pass, and for cell washing. Data management systems and methods and priming methods are also disclosed. 112-. (canceled)14. The method of further comprising:flowing substantially concentrated red blood cells from the second container through a leukocyte filter and into a third container.15. The method of further comprising employing a needle for blood withdrawal from a donor claim 14 , the needle being of about 18-21 gauge.1624-. (canceled)25. The method of further comprising creating separate fluid flow regions within the gap during the separation of the whole blood into substantially concentrated red blood cells and plasma without the use of seals.26. The method of further comprising creating the separate fluid flow regions by providing one of the outer housing or inner rotor with a raised circumferential ridge that extends into the gap.27. The method of further comprising providing the ridge with a larger radial dimension to decrease mixing of fluids between the separate fluid flow regions.28. The method of further comprising providing the ridge with a larger axial dimension to decrease mixing of fluids between the separate fluid flow regions. This application claims the ...

FLUID PROCESSING AND CIRCUIT ARRAY, SYSTEM AND APPARATUS

A fluid flow circuit assembly for a fluid processing device, comprising a housing having a plurality of openings, a separator disposed at least partially within the housing, and a plurality of flow paths communicating between an interior and an exterior of the housing via the plurality of openings, wherein the separator is disposed substantially at the center of the plurality of flow paths. 1. A fluid flow circuit assembly for a fluid processing device , comprising:a housing having a plurality of openings;a separator disposed at least partially within the housing; anda plurality of flow paths communicating between an interior and an exterior of the housing via the plurality of openings, wherein the separator is disposed substantially at the center of the plurality of flow paths.2. The fluid flow circuit assembly of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of flow paths comprise at least a first flow path in a first plane and at least a second flow path in a second plane.3. The fluid flow circuit assembly of claim 2 , wherein the first plane and the second plane are disposed parallel to each other.4. The fluid flow circuit assembly of claim 3 , further comprising a third flow path in a third plane claim 3 , wherein the third plane is disposed transverse to the first and second planes.5. The fluid flow circuit assembly of claim 1 , wherein the housing and the plurality of flow paths are in a form of a molded cassette.6. A fluid flow circuit system for fluid processing claim 1 , comprising:a housing having a plurality of openings;a separator disposed at least partially within the housing;a plurality of flow paths communicating between an interior and an exterior of the housing via the plurality of openings, wherein the plurality of flow paths are disposed along multiple planes; anda loading platform of a fluid processing device, configured to engage at least one of the housing, separator, and plurality of flow paths, wherein the loading platform is capable of translational ...

Optical Detection And Measurement Of Hematocrit And Free Hemoglobin Concentration

A colorimetric optical sensor device includes a broadband light source configured to emit a light that is exposed to a fluid in a vessel. At least a portion of the light is reflected off of the fluid and received by an optical spectrometer. The optical spectrometer analyzes at least a portion of the received light to determine a main wavelength of the light. A controller correlates the main wavelength to a corresponding hematocrit or free hemoglobin concentration and generates an output indicative of the hematocrit or the free hemoglobin concentration of the fluid. The hematocrit or free hemoglobin concentration information may be used by a separation assembly in which the colorimetric optical sensor device may be incorporated to modify a separation procedure in which the monitored fluid is to be separated or is a component or constituent of a previously separated biological fluid. 1. A method of measuring a hematocrit or a free hemoglobin concentration of a fluid , comprising:providing a fluid in a vessel;exposing the fluid in the vessel to a light emitted by a broadband light source so as to cause at least a portion of the light to be reflected by the fluid;receiving at least a portion of the reflected light;analyzing at least a portion of the received light to determine a main wavelength of said at least a portion of the received light;correlating the main wavelength to a hematocrit or a free hemoglobin concentration; andgenerating an output indicative of the hematocrit or the free hemoglobin concentration corresponding to said main wavelength.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the light from the broadband light source includes at least all wavelengths in the visible range.3. The method of claim 1 , whereinthe light emitted by the broadband light source is transmitted through a surface of the vessel to be exposed to the fluid in the vessel, andthe light emitted by the broadband light source is configured to strike the surface of the vessel at an angle between 30° ...

METHOD FOR CONTROLLING FOULING DURING A SPINNING MEMBRANE FILTRATION PROCEDURE

Methods for controlling a spinning membrane separator so as to limit fouling of the membrane by changing the rotation rate of the spinning membrane in response to the fouling rate, while maintaining a constant outlet cellular concentration. Increasing the spinner rotation rate will increase the strength of the Taylor vortices generated within the separator by the spinning of the membrane, which should reduce fouling of the membrane. The goal of the method is to rotate the spinning membrane at the slowest rate possible without unacceptable fouling. Two specific methods to control fouling are disclosed. In a first, unidirectional method, the spin rate of the membrane is only increased in response to undesirable fouling in order to prevent the fouling from continuing. In a second, bidirectional method, the spin rate of the membrane may be either increased or decreased in response to the measured fouling rate in order to maintain the fouling rate within a desired range. 1. A method of controlling a spinning membrane separator during filtering of a bulk fluid to limit fouling of the membrane comprising the steps of:a) setting an initial spin rate for the spinning membrane;b) operating the spinning membrane at the initial spin rate;c) flowing bulk fluid through the spinning membrane;d) measuring a fouling rate (FR) corresponding to a change in transmembrane pressure over time (ΔTMP/ΔT);{'sub': 'MAX', 'e) comparing the FR to a predetermined maximum fouling rate (FR);'}{'sub': MAX', 'MAX, 'f) if FR>FR, determining a cumulative time above limit during which the FR has been >FR(RSTAL);'}g) if RSTAL is >a predetermined time limit, increasing the spin rate by a predetermined value;h) waiting a predetermined time to allow for the TMP to stabilize; andi) returning to step d).2. The method of wherein the initial spin rate corresponds to the lowest spin rate that permits filtration to be maintained at a fouling rate (FR) less than that corresponding to the predetermined maximum ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OPENING AND/OR EVALUATING CONNECTION SITE

System, apparatus and method for opening a heat-bonded connection formed between two hollow, flexible thermoplastic conduits. A pressure difference is created between the inside of at least one of the conduits and the ambient atmosphere sufficient to cause expansion of a wall of the tubing conduit in the vicinity of a frangible portion at least partially blocking the connection to disrupt the frangible portion and reduce the blocking. 119-. (canceled)20. Connection opening apparatus for opening a heat-bonded connection formed between two hollow , flexible , thermoplastic conduits , which connection includes a frangible portion of thermoplastic material at least partially blocking internal communication between the conduits , the apparatus comprising an occluder cooperative with one of the thermoplastic conduits to block flow through the conduit , a pump cooperative with the other of the other of the thermoplastic conduits to create pressure within the other of the thermoplastic conduits in proximity to such a connection and a pressure sensor cooperative with the one thermoplastic conduit and operable to sense pressure inside the one thermoplastic conduit;whereby pressure from the pump is operable to disrupt the frangible portion and reduce the amount of blocking.21. The apparatus of in which the pump is operable to create a pressure difference between the inside of the other thermoplastic conduit and the ambient atmosphere sufficient to cause expansion of a wall of the other thermoplastic conduit in the vicinity of the frangible portion to disrupt the frangible portion and reduce the blocking.22. The apparatus of in which the pump is operable to create the pressure difference before the thermoplastic material at the connection has fully hardened from the heat-bonded connection.23. The apparatus of in which the pump is operable to create the pressure difference while the thermoplastic material at the connection has a temperature above its glass transition temperature ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OPENING AND/OR EVALUATING CONNECTION SITE

System, apparatus and method for opening a heat-bonded connection formed between two hollow, flexible thermoplastic conduits. A pressure difference is created between the inside of at least one of the conduits and the ambient atmosphere sufficient to cause expansion of a wall of the tubing conduit in the vicinity of a frangible portion at least partially blocking the connection to disrupt the frangible portion and reduce the blocking. 1. A method for opening a heat-bonded connection formed between two hollow , flexible , thermoplastic conduits , which connection includes a frangible portion of thermoplastic material at least partially blocking internal communication between the conduits , the method including:creating a pressure difference between the inside of at least one of the conduits and the ambient atmosphere sufficient to cause expansion of a wall of the tubing conduit in the vicinity of the frangible portion to disrupt the frangible portion and reduce the blocking.2. The method of in which the pressure difference is created when the thermoplastic material at an elevated temperature.3. The method of in which the pressure difference is created when the thermoplastic material has a temperature above its glass transition temperature.4. The method of in which the pressure difference is created within about 10 seconds of the formation of the heat-bond connection.5. The method of in which the pressure difference is created by increasing pressure inside of the tubular conduit above ambient pressure.6. The method of in which the pressure difference is created by reducing the pressure outside of the tubular conduit below the pressure inside the conduit.7. The method of including occluding one of the thermoplastic conduits and increasing the pressure in the other of the thermoplastic conduits until the frangible portion is disrupted.8. The method of including observing the pressure in one of the conduits after the frangible portion is disrupted to determine the ...

STERILE CONNECTION DEVICE FOR MAKING MULTIPLE CONNECTIONS

System, method and apparatus for making a plurality of sterile connections between a plurality of pairs of thermoplastic tubes. A first receiver receives a first tube, a second receiver receives second and third tubes, and a third receiver receives a fourth tube. The first and second receivers are movable to place clamped and heated ends of first and second tubes into contact and the second and third receivers are movable to place clamped and heated ends of third and fourth tubes into contact. 1. A system for making a plurality of sterile connections between a plurality of pairs of thermoplastic tubes , the system comprising:a first receiver for receiving a first tube, a first clamping system including a tube heater associated with the first receiver,a second receiver for receiving second and third tubes, a second clamping system including a tube heater associated with the second receiver;a third receiver for receiving a fourth tube, a third clamping system including a tube heater associated with the third receiver;the first receiver and second receiver being relatively movable to place clamped and heated ends of first and second tubes into contact to form an integral bond between them; andthe second receiver and third receiver being relatively movable to place clamped and heated ends of third and fourth tubes into contact to form an integral bond between them.2. The system of in which each clamping system includes at least one clamp that is co-movable with the respective receiver with which is associated and at least one clamp that does not move with the respective receiver claim 1 , whereby movement of the receiver exerts a tensile and/or a shear force on a tube clamped between such clamps of such respective system to sever such tube.3. The system of in which the first clamping system includes at least one clamp that is co-movable with the first receiver and at least one clamp that does not move with the first receiver claim 2 , the second clamping system includes ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MECHANICALLY OPENING A CONNECTION SITE

Method and apparatus are disclosed for mechanically opening a heat-bonded connection site between two hollow, flexible, thermoplastic segments of a medical fluid flow path, the heat-bonded connection site having an axis. The connection site is compressed between two facing surfaces, and the facing surfaces are relatively moved to rotate the connection site about the connection site axis and to apply force to the connection site substantially perpendicular to the connection site axis. 1. A connection system comprising a connection forming apparatus for forming a heat-bonded connection site between two hollow , flexible , thermoplastic segments of a medical fluid flow path , the heat-bonded connection site having an axis , and a connection site opening station for opening the heat-bonded connection site , wherein the connection site opening station includes:at least two facing surfaces that can be spaced apart sufficiently to receive the two segments and the heat bonded connection site between the facing surfaces;the facing surfaces being relatively movable to rotate the connection site about the connection site axis and apply force to the connection site substantially perpendicular to the connection site axis.2. The connection system of in which one of the facing surfaces is substantially stationary and the other of the facing surfaces is movable with at least two degrees of freedom.3. The connection system of in which each of the facing surfaces is movable with at least one degree of freedom.4. The connection system of in which at least one of the facing surfaces is generally cylindrical.5. The connection system of in which at least one of the facing surfaces is generally planar.6. The connection system of in which at least one of the facing surfaces is movable with at least one degree of freedom in one direction and the other facing surface is movable with at least one degree of freedom in a different direction.7. The connection system of in which the different ...

Enforcing access control in trigger-action programming using taint analysis

One or more processors mark a set of data fields associated with a first trigger in a first trigger-action pair with a taint, where a trigger event triggers an action event in a trigger-action pair. One or more processors mark a first action associated with the first trigger-action pair with the taint, and detect a second trigger associated with a second trigger-action pair. One or more processors then propagate the taint from the first trigger-action pair to the second trigger, and prevent a second action associated with the second trigger-action pair in response to detecting the taint in the second trigger.

Centrifugal Separation And Collection Of Red Blood Cells, Plasma, Or Both Red Blood Cells And Plasma

Systems and methods are provided for separating blood into two or more components for collection of red blood cells, plasma, or both red blood cells and plasma. A blood separation system includes a blood separation device and a fluid flow circuit configured to be mounted to the blood separation device. The blood separation device includes a centrifugal separator and a spinning membrane separator drive unit, with the blood being separated into its constituents by the centrifugal separator. Separated plasma may be collected following separation by the centrifugal separator or may first be conveyed from the centrifugal separator into the spinning membrane separator drive unit to separate cellular blood components from the plasma prior to collection of the filtered plasma. The cellular blood components filtered from the plasma may be retained in the circuit as a waste product or may be flushed out of the circuit to a recipient. 1. A blood separation device comprising:a centrifugal separator;a spinning membrane separator drive unit;a pump system; and control the pump system to convey blood into the centrifugal separator,', 'control the centrifugal separator to separate red blood cells from the blood, and', 'control the pump system to collect at least a portion of the separated red blood cells., 'a controller configured to'}2. The blood separation device of claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured tocontrol the centrifugal separator to separate red blood cells and a plasma constituent from the blood, andcontrol the pump system to collect at least a portion of the plasma constituent.3. The blood separation device of claim 2 , wherein the controller is further configured to control the pump system to convey at least a portion of the collected plasma constituent out of the blood separation device while controlling the centrifugal separator to separate red blood cells and plasma constituent from the blood.4. The blood separation device of claim 1 , wherein the ...

Adjustment Of Target Interface Location Between Separated Fluid Components In A Centrifuge

A fluid separation device includes a centrifuge in which a fluid is separated into at least two components, with an interface therebetween. At least a portion of one of the separated fluid components is removed from the centrifuge and flows through a vessel. Light is reflected off of the separated fluid component in the vessel and received and analyzed to determine its main wavelength. If the main wavelength is higher than a maximum value, a target location of the interface is changed. If the main wavelength is less than the maximum value, then the location of the interface is compared to the target location. When the interface is sufficiently close to the target location, the optical density of the separated fluid component in the vessel is compared to a minimum value. If the optical density is less than the minimum value, the target location of the interface is changed. 140-. (canceled)41. A method of adjusting a target location of an interface between separated fluid components continuously flowing through a centrifuge , comprising:separating fluid in a centrifuge into separated fluid components with an interface between the separated fluid components and with an initial target location of the interface as a current target location of the interface;removing one of the separated fluid components from the centrifuge and flowing at least a portion of said one of the separated fluid components through a vessel;exposing the vessel to light so as to cause an amount of light to be transmitted through the separated fluid component in the vessel and received as a transmitted light;determining an optical density of the separated fluid component in the vessel based at least in part on said transmitted light; and upon determining that the optical density of the separated fluid component in the vessel is greater than the maximum optical density value, changing the current target location of the interface to an upper limit-adjusted target location that becomes the current ...

Determination Of Cause Of Redness In Biological Fluid

An optical sensor device includes a light source configured to emit a light including a wavelength in a range of 650 to 900 nm that is exposed to a biological fluid at first and second times. At least a portion of the light is reflected off of the fluid and received by a light detector. The light detector analyzes at least a portion of the received light to determine a first intensity of the light at the wavelength at the first time and a second intensity of the light at the wavelength at the second time. A controller compares the first and second intensities and generates an output indicative of the presence of red blood cells or free hemoglobin in the biological fluid depending on which intensity is greater and whether there is more redness in the biological fluid at the first time or at the second time. 1. A method of determining a cause of redness in a biological fluid , comprising:exposing a biological fluid to a light including a wavelength in a range of 650 nm to 900 nm at a first time and at a second time that is subsequent to the first time so as to cause at least a portion of the light to be reflected by the biological fluid;receiving at least a portion of the reflected light at the first time and at the second time;analyzing at least a portion of the received light at the first time to determine a first intensity of said at least a portion of the received light at said wavelength and at the second time to determine a second intensity of said at least a portion of the received light at said wavelength;determining whether the redness in the biological fluid at the second time is greater or less than the redness in the biological fluid at the first time;comparing the first intensity to the second intensity; andgenerating an output indicative of a presence of red blood cells in the biological fluid or generating an output indicative of a presence of free hemoglobin in the biological fluid, based upon said determination of whether the redness in the biological ...

HIGH PERFORMANCE AGRICULTURAL TIRE

An agricultural tire includes a toroidal tire structure containing vulcanized rubber in an amount of about 90 percent or more by weight. The tire structure may have one or more performance enhancing features, including high strength plies. The high strength plies contain cords that are formed of yarns, including polyamide yarns, and have individual cord tensile strengths within a range of about 400 N to about 700 N. The performance enhancing features further include circumferential belt plies having cords at angles of about 74 degrees or more from an axial direction. 1. An agricultural tire , comprising:a toroidal tire structure having a tread portion, a pair of bead portions, and opposite sidewall portions, and further having reinforcing plies; wherein:the toroidal tire structure contains vulcanized rubber in the amount of about 90 percent or more by weight; andthe plies include high strength plies containing cords that are formed of yarns, including polyamide yarns, and that have individual cord tensile strengths within a range of about 400 N to about 700 N.2. An agricultural tire as defined in claim 1 , wherein the plies include only the high strength plies.3. An agricultural tire as defined in claim 1 , wherein the high strength plies contain only cords that are formed of yarns claim 1 , including polyamide yarns claim 1 , and that have individual cord tensile strengths within a range of about 400 N to about 700 N.4. An agricultural tire as defined in claim 1 , wherein the polyamide yarns have deniers within a range of about 1500 to about 1900.5. An agricultural tire as defined in claim 1 , wherein the high strength plies include cords in which the yarns consist of polyamide yarns having deniers within a range of about 1500 to about 1900.6. An agricultural tire as defined in claim 1 , wherein the high strength plies include plies in which all cords are formed of yarns consisting of polyamide yarns having deniers within a range of about 1500 to about 1900.7. An ...

Systems And Methods For Harvesting MNCs As Part Of A Plasma Collection Procedure

A blood separation system is provided that includes a blood separation device that includes a centrifugal separator and a spinning membrane separator drive unit incorporated into a common case and a fluid flow circuit having both a separation chamber configured to be mounted in the centrifugal separator of the blood separation device and a spinning membrane separator configured to be received in the spinning membrane separator drive unit. In an exemplary procedure, the system is used to collect concentrated platelets and/or concentrated platelets and plasma, and to further permit harvesting of the mononuclear cells from the centrifugal separator at the conclusion of platelet collection, and transfer of the mononuclear cells to the spinning membrane separator. 1. A method for harvesting mononuclear cells (MNCs) during a platelet collection procedure comprising:a) withdrawing whole blood (WB) from a blood source;b) introducing WB into a centrifugal separator;c) separating WB within the centrifugal separator into platelet rich plasma (PRP), packed red blood cells (RBCs) containing white blood cells (WBCs) and a WBC layer including MNCs;d) flowing PRP to a spinning membrane separator;e) flowing a first quantity of RBCs and WBCs to a return container;f) retaining a second quantity of RBCs and the WBCs, including MNCs, within the centrifugal separator;g) separating PRP within the spinning membrane separator into platelet poor plasma (PPP) and platelet concentrate (PC);h) flowing the PPP to one of the return container and a first collection container;i) flowing the PC to a second collection container;j) flowing RBCs, or RBCs and PPP, from the return container to the centrifugal separator in an amount sufficient to push the MNCs out of the centrifugal separator;k) flowing the MNCs to the spinning membrane separator; andl) sealing the spinning membrane separator to retain the MNCs therein.2. The method of further comprising flowing PPP from the spinning membrane separator ...

TUNED MASS-SPRING DAMPER

A wheel/hub assembly includes an axle shaft, a wheel, and a hub supporting the wheel on the axle shaft. The wheel/hub assembly has a target resonant frequency of vibration. A tuned mass-spring damper is vibrationally coupled to the wheel/hub assembly, and has a counteracting resonant frequency of vibration that is predetermined with reference to the target resonant frequency of vibration. 1. An apparatus comprising:a wheel/hub assembly including an axle shaft, a wheel, and a hub supporting the wheel on the axle shaft, the wheel/hub assembly having a target resonant frequency of vibration; anda tuned mass-spring damper vibrationally coupled to the wheel/hub assembly and having a counteracting resonant frequency of vibration that is predetermined with reference to the target resonant frequency of vibration.2. An apparatus as defined in claim 1 , wherein the damper is configured as a circumferentially continuous ring and is mounted concentrically on the wheel/hub assembly.3. An apparatus as defined in claim 1 , wherein the counteracting resonant frequency is equal or substantially equal to the target resonant frequency.4. An apparatus as defined in claim 1 , wherein the damper is configured in distinct portions of elastic material having properties of density and stiffness that are predetermined with reference to the counteracting resonant frequency.5. An apparatus as defined in claim 4 , wherein the distinct portions of elastic material include a first portion having stiffness predetermined with reference to the counteracting resonant frequency claim 4 , and a second portion having density predetermined with reference to the counteracting resonant frequency.6. An apparatus as defined in claim 1 , wherein the damper is coupled to the wheel/hub assembly through a bearing on the axle shaft.7. An apparatus as defined in claim 1 , wherein the damper is mounted directly on the axle shaft.8. An apparatus as defined in claim 1 , wherein the wheel/hub assembly includes a CV ...

Adjustable air conditioning control system for a universal airplane ground support equipment cart

A ground support equipment air conditioning system detachably connects to a port on an airplane. An air conduit connects an air intake and filter to a coupling that is adapted to be connected to one end of an air duct or hose the other end of which is adapted to be connected to an airplane's port. A variable speed blower in the air conduit has its speed varied by a controller to regulate the pressure supplied to an airplane. This controller receives as inputs the pressure sensed by a pressure sensor connected to the air conduit adjacent the coupling to sense the pressure of air passing into the airplane and also a setpoint pressure which can be varied to match the requirements of different types or classes of airplane. First and second air conditioners each include a circular refrigerant conduit channeling refrigerant through a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator. The evaporators are positioned in the air conduit with the first air conditioner's evaporator preceding the blower and the second air conditioner's evaporator following the blower in the air conduit. A condenser cooling fan drives air through the two condensers and is controlled by a controller responsive to one or more pressures or temperatures measured in one of the air or refrigerant conduits or in the surrounding air.

Compact, modularized air conditioning system that can be mounted upon an airplane ground support equipment cart

A modular and compact air conditioning system is designed to be conveyed by a ground support equipment cart and to occupy minimal space within the cart. The system is constructed within a rectangular frame supporting top, bottom, left side, right side, front side, and back side panels. The top and back side panels contain thin air conditioner condensers. One of the left and right side panels contain an air outlet, and the other contains an air inlet and a duct that may be connected to an airplane to provide cooling air to the airplane. A condenser fan is mounted within the rectangular frame and is arranged to draw outside air in through the condensers and to blow the air out through the air outlet. First and second air conditioners are mounted within the rectangular frame, each including a compressor, an expansion valve, and evaporator coils, with each compressor pumping refrigerant through one of the condensers, through one of the expansion valves, and through one of the evaporator coils and back to the compressor. One of the two evaporator coils is mounted over the air inlet, and the other is mounted over the duct. A variable speed blower is mounted within the rectangular frame adjacent the air inlet, and an enclosed air passage routes air from the air inlet through one of the evaporator coils, the air passage narrowing and routing the air through the blower, the passage then widening and curving around and routing the air through the other of the evaporator coils and through the duct.

Blood Separation Systems And Methods Employing Centrifugal And Spinning Membrane Separation Techniques

A prismatic reflector is provided for incorporation into a centrifugal separation chamber. The prismatic reflector is formed of a light-transmissive material and includes inner and outer walls and first and second end walls. The inner wall is configured to receive light traveling along an initial path and transmit the light to the first end wall, with the first end wall receiving the light transmitted through the inner wall and directing the light toward the second end wall in a direction that is angled with respect to the initial path. The second end wall receives the light from the first end wall and transmits the light out of the prismatic reflector. The initial path of the light may be in a direction toward a rotational axis of the centrifugal separation chamber, with the prismatic reflector redirecting the light into a direction substantially parallel to the rotational axis. 116-. (canceled)17. A prismatic reflector for incorporation into a centrifugal separation chamber , comprising:inner and outer walls; and the prismatic reflector is formed of a light-transmissive material,', 'the inner wall is configured to receive light traveling along an initial path and transmit the light to the first end wall,', 'the first end wall is configured to receive the light transmitted through the inner wall and direct the light toward the second end wall in a direction that is angled with respect to the initial path, and', 'the second end wall is configured to receive the light from the first end wall and transmit the light out of the prismatic reflector., 'first and second end walls, wherein'}18. The prismatic reflector of claim 17 , wherein the first end wall is angled approximately 45° with respect to the second end wall.19. The prismatic reflector of claim 17 , wherein first end wall and the inner and outer walls are configured to transmit the light from the first end wall to the second end wall by total internal reflection.20. The prismatic reflector of claim 17 , wherein ...

Liquid pumping cassettes and associated pressure distribution manifold and related methods

A fluid-handling cassette comprising a plurality of diaphragm valves and pumps is configured to have its actuation ports located along a thin or narrow edge of the cassette. Actuation channels within the cassette lead from the actuation ports to actuation chambers of the valves and pumps in a space between plates that comprise the cassette. The individual plates have a nominal thickness that is sufficient to provide a rigid ceiling for the actuation channels, but sufficiently thin to minimize the overall thickness of the cassette. The cassette can be plugged into or unplugged from an actuation receptacle or a manifold by its narrow edge. A plurality of such cassettes can be stacked together or spaced apart from each other to form a cassette assembly, providing for a convenient way to install and remove the cassette assembly from its actuation receptacle. The arrangement allows for an improved way of connecting a complex cassette assembly to its associated pressure distribution manifold without the use of a plurality of flexible connecting tubes between the two.

Semiconductor structure formation

Systems, apparatuses, and methods related to semiconductor structure formation are described. An example apparatus includes a structural material for a semiconductor device. The structural material includes an orthosilicate derived oligomer having a number of oxygen (O) atoms each chemically bonded to one of a corresponding number of silicon (Si) atoms and a chemical bond formed between an element from group 13 of a periodic table of elements (e.g., B, Al, Ga, In, and Tl) and the number of O atoms of the orthosilicate derived oligomer. The chemical bond crosslinks chains of the orthosilicate derived oligomer to increase mechanical strength of the structural material, relative to the structural material formed without the chemical bond to crosslink the chains, among other benefits described herein.

Abalone farming system

An abalone farming system includes an indoor hatchery and an out-of-doors growout area which each utilize a plurality of horizontally elongated tanks in which the abalone are raised. These elongated tanks are stacked along a common vertical plane and arranged such that seawater provided at one end of an upper tank flows the entire length of that tank before cascading to a next lower adjacent tank, wherein the water flows the entire length of that tank before cascading to a next adjacent lower tank, and so forth until the water is discharged to a seawater discharge line. Each tank is provided with an air bar which extends the entire length thereof for aerating the seawater flowing through the tank, and a plurality of plates which are configured to increase the grazing area for the abalone and for dividing the area within the tank into distinct cells. A holding tank is utilized to supply water to both the hatchery and growout area. Water supplied from the holding tank to the hatchery is filtered, subjected to ultraviolet sterilization and temperature controlled. Seawater in the discharge line can be reclaimed and recirculated, thus permitting the abalone farming system to be modified into a partially closed loop system, if necessary.

Control systems and methods for blood or fluid handling medical devices

A processor of a medical device configured to communicate with a remote server can be programmed to protect the medical device from exposure to unauthorized or malicious software. A system or method to implement this form of protection can include, for example, at least one processor on the medical device, a control software module that controls the operation of the medical device and is executable on the processor, a data management module that manages data flow to and from the control software module from sources external to the medical device, and an agent module that has access to a limited number of designated memory locations in the medical device. In addition, a hemodialysis apparatus can be configured to operate in conjunction with an apparatus for providing purified water from a source such as a municipal water supply or a well. A system for controlling delivery of purified water to the hemodialysis apparatus can comprise a therapy controller of the hemodialysis apparatus configured to communicate with a controller of a water purification device, and a user interface controller of the hemodialysis apparatus configured to communicate with the therapy controller, and to send data to and receive data from a user interface.

Provisioning of wireless connectivity for devices using NFC

The claimed subject matter provides a system and/or a method that facilitates connecting a wireless device to a secure network. A device can establish a near field communication link with a verified device on a network, wherein the near field communication link can be a secure and/or encrypted link to provision the device without compromising security constraints within the network. An installation component can invoke the transfer of provisioning data to the network via the near field communication link to secure a wireless connection for the device to the network.

Modularized airplane ground support equipment cart

Adjustable air conditioning control system for a universal airplane ground support equipment cart

A ground support equipment air conditioning system detachably connects to a port on an airplane. An air conduit connects an air intake and filter to a coupling that is adapted to be connected to one end of an air duct or hose the other end of which is adapted to be connected to an airplane's port. A variable speed blower in the air conduit has its speed varied by a controller to regulate the pressure supplied to an airplane. This controller receives as inputs the pressure sensed by a pressure sensor connected to the air conduit adjacent the coupling to sense the pressure of air passing into the airplane and also a setpoint pressure which can be varied to match the requirements of different types or classes of airplane. First and second air conditioners each include a circular refrigerant conduit channeling refrigerant through a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator. The evaporators are positioned in the air conduit with the first air conditioner's evaporator preceding the blower and the second air conditioner's evaporator following the blower in the air conduit. A condenser cooling fan drives air through the two condensers and is controlled by a controller responsive to one or more pressures or temperatures measured in one of the air or refrigerant conduits or in the surrounding air.

ADJUSTABLE AIR CONDITIONING CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A CART OF UNIVERSAL GROUND SUPPORT EQUIPMENT FOR AIRCRAFT.

- Un sistema de aire acondicionado que se conecta de forma desprendible a un puerto de un avión (823), comprendiendo el sistema: un conducto de aire (500) que conecta una entrada de aire y un filtro (502) a un acoplamiento (518) adaptado para ser conectado a un extremo de un conducto de aire (26) o manguera, cuyo otro extremo está adaptado para ser conectado al puerto de avión; un soplante (508) de velocidad variable en dicho conducto de aire (500), un sensor de presión (526) conectado a dicho conducto de aire (500) adyacente a dicho acoplamiento (518) para detectar la presión del aire que pasa al avión, y un controlador (1514) que recibe como entradas la presión detectada por dicho sensor de presión (526) y una presión de referencia que puede ser variada para satisfacer los requerimientos de diferentes tipos o clases de avión, en el que el controlador (1514) varía la velocidad del soplante (508) para regular la presión suministrada al avión (823); primero y segundo acondicionadores de aire (520, 522), cada uno de los cuales comprende un conducto circular de refrigerante que canaliza refrigerante a través de un compresor (601, 702), un condensador (406, 410), una válvula de expansión (620, 720), y un evaporador (504, 514), estando posicionado el evaporador (504, 514) en dicho conducto de aire (500), de manera que el evaporador (504) del primer acondicionador de aire precede al soplante (508) y el evaporador (514) del segundo acondicionador de aire sigue al soplante (508) en el conducto de aire (500); y un ventilador de refrigeración (414) del condensador que impulsa aire a través de los dos condensadores (406, 410) y controlado por un controlador (1518) sensible a una o más presiones o temperaturas medidas en uno de los conductos de aire o refrigerante o en el aire circundante. - An air conditioning system that detachably connects to a port of an airplane (823), the system comprising: an air duct (500) that connects an air inlet and a filter (502) to a coupling (518 ...

An adjustable air conditioning control system for a universal airplane ground support equipment cart

A ground support equipment air conditioning system detachably connects to a port on an airplane. An air conduit connects an air intake and filter to a coupling that is adapted to be connected to one end of an air duct or hose (26) the other end of which is adapted to be connected to an airplane's port. A variable speed blower (508) in the air conduit has its speed varied by a controller (525) to regulate the pressure supplied to an airplane. This controller receives as inputs the pressure sensed by a pressure sensor (526) connected to the air conduit adjacent the coupling to sense the pressure of air passing into the airplane and also a setpoint pressure which can be varied to match the requirements of different types or classes of airplane. First and second air conditioners (520, 522) each include a circular refrigerant conduit channeling refrigerant through a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator. The evaporators are positioned in the air conduit with the first air conditioner's evaporator (504) preceding the blower (508) and the second air conditioner's evaporator (514) following the blower in the air conduit. A condenser cooling fan drives air through the two condensers and is controlled by a controller (1900) responsive to one or more pressures or temperatures measured in one of the air or refrigerant conduits or in the surrounding air.

An adjustable air conditioning control system for a universal airplane ground support equipment cart

A ground support equipment air conditioning system detachably connects to a port on an airplane. An air conduit connects an air intake and filter to a coupling that is adapted to be connected to one end of an air duct or hose (26) the other end of which is adapted to be connected to an airplane's port. A variable speed blower (508) in the air conduit has its speed varied by a controller (525) to regulate the pressure supplied to an airplane. This controller receives as inputs the pressure sensed by a pressure sensor (526) connected to the air conduit adjacent the coupling to sense the pressure of air passing into the airplane and also a setpoint pressure which can be varied to match the requirements of different types or classes of airplane. First and second air conditioners (520, 522) each include a circular refrigerant conduit channeling refrigerant through a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator. The evaporators are positioned in the air conduit with the first air conditioner's evaporator (504) preceding the blower (508) and the second air conditioner's evaporator (514) following the blower in the air conduit. A condenser cooling fan drives air through the two condensers and is controlled by a controller (1900) responsive to one or more pressures or temperatures measured in one of the air or refrigerant conduits or in the surrounding air.

Adjustable air conditioning control system for a universal aircraft ground support vehicle

An adjustable air conditioning control system for a universal airplane ground support equipment cart

A ground support equipment air conditioning system detachably connects to a port on an airplane. An air conduit connects an air intake and filter to a coupling that is adapted to be connected to one end of an air duct or hose (26) the other end of which is adapted to be connected to an airplane's port. A variable speed blower (508) in the air conduit has its speed varied by a controller (525) to regulate the pressure supplied to an airplane. This controller receives as inputs the pressure sensed by a pressure sensor (526) connected to the air conduit adjacent the coupling to sense the pressure of air passing into the airplane and also a setpoint pressure which can be varied to match the requirements of different types or classes of airplane. First and second air conditioners (520, 522) each include a circular refrigerant conduit channeling refrigerant through a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator. The evaporators are positioned in the air conduit with the first air conditioner's evaporator (504) preceding the blower (508) and the second air conditioner's evaporator (514) following the blower in the air conduit. A condenser cooling fan drives air through the two condensers and is controlled by a controller (1900) responsive to one or more pressures or temperatures measured in one of the air or refrigerant conduits or in the surrounding air.

Compact, modularized air conditioning system that can be mounted upon an airplane ground support equipment cart

A modular and compact air conditioning system is designed to be conveyed by a ground support equipment cart and to occupy minimal space within the cart. The system is constructed within a rectangular frame supporting top, bottom, left side, right side, front side, and back side panels. The top and back side panels contain thin air conditioner condensers. One of the left and right side panels contain an air outlet, and the other contains an air inlet and a duct that may be connected to an airplane to provide cooling air to the airplane. A condenser fan is mounted within the rectangular frame and is arranged to draw outside air in through the condensers and to blow the air out through the air outlet. First and second air conditioners are mounted within the rectangular frame, each including a compressor, an expansion valve, and evaporator coils, with each compressor pumping refrigerant through one of the condensers, through one of the expansion valves, and through one of the evaporator coils and back to the compressor. One of the two evaporator coils is mounted over the air inlet, and the other is mounted over the duct. A variable speed blower is mounted within the rectangular frame adjacent the air inlet, and an enclosed air passage routes air from the air inlet through one of the evaporator coils, the air passage narrowing and routing the air through the blower, the passage then widening and curving around and routing the air through the other of the evaporator coils and through the duct.

A compact, modularized air conditioning system that can be mounted upon an airplane ground support equipment cart

A modular and compact air conditioning system is designed to be conveyed by a ground support equipment cart and to occupy minimal space within the cart. The system is constructed within a rectangular frame supporting top, bottom, left side, right side, front side, and back side panels. The top and back side panels contain thin air conditioner condensers. One of the left and right side panels contain an air outlet, and the other contains an air inlet and a duct that may be connected to an airplane to provide cooling air to the airplane. A condenser fan is mounted within the rectangular frame and is arranged to draw outside air in through the condensers and to blow the air out through the air outlet. First and second air conditioners are mounted within the rectangular frame, each including a compressor, an expansion valve, and evaporator coils, with each compressor pumping refrigerant through one of the condensers, through one of the expansion valves, and through one of the evaporator coils and back to the compressor. One of the two evaporator coils is mounted over the air inlet, and the other is mounted over the duct. A variable speed blower is mounted within the rectangular frame adjacent the air inlet, and an enclosed air passage routes air from the air inlet through one of the evaporator coils, the air passage narrowing and routing the air through the blower, the passage then widening and curving around and routing the air through the other of the evaporator coils and through the duct.

A compact, modularized air conditioning system that can be mounted upon an airplane ground support equipment cart

A modular and compact air conditioning system is designed to be conveyed by a ground support equipment cart and to occupy minimal space within the cart. The system is constructed within a rectangular frame supporting top, bottom, left side, right side, front side, and back side panels. The top and back side panels contain thin air conditioner condensers. One of the left and right side panels contain an air outlet, and the other contains an air inlet and a duct that may be connected to an airplane to provide cooling air to the airplane. A condenser fan is mounted within the rectangular frame and is arranged to draw outside air in through the condensers and to blow the air out through the air outlet. First and second air conditioners are mounted within the rectangular frame, each including a compressor, an expansion valve, and evaporator coils, with each compressor pumping refrigerant through one of the condensers, through one of the expansion valves, and through one of the evaporator coils and back to the compressor. One of the two evaporator coils is mounted over the air inlet, and the other is mounted over the duct. A variable speed blower is mounted within the rectangular frame adjacent the air inlet, and an enclosed air passage routes air from the air inlet through one of the evaporator coils, the air passage narrowing and routing the air through the blower, the passage then widening and curving around and routing the air through the other of the evaporator coils and through the duct.

NON-PNEUMATIC TIRE HAVING REINFORCED SUPPORT STRUCTURE AND METHOD OF MAKING SAME

A method of making a non-pneumatic tire includes providing an inner ring of elastomeric material and an outer ring of elastomeric material, and arranging the inner ring and the outer ring such that the inner ring is substantially coaxial with the outer ring. The method further includes providing a plurality of sheets of reinforced elastomeric material and forming the plurality of sheets into a plurality of U-shaped sheets. The method also includes arranging the plurality of U-shaped sheets between the inner ring and the outer ring, and curing the inner ring, the outer ring, and the plurality of U-shaped sheets.

Provisioning of wireless connectivity for devices using NFC

The claimed subject matter provides a system and/or a method that facilitates connecting a wireless device to a secure network. A device can establish a near field communication link with a verified device on a network, wherein the near field communication link can be a secure and/or encrypted link to provision the device without comprising security constraints within the network. An installation component can invoke the transfer of provisioning data to the network via the near filed communication link to secure a wireless connection for the device to the network.

Safety switch

Liquid pumping cassettes and associated pressure distribution manifold and related methods

A fluid-handling cassette (80) comprises at least one of a fluidly actuated diaphragm valve (82) and a fluidly actuated diaphragm pump (84), the actuating fluid being supplied to the cassette (80) through actuation ports (96) located along a thin or narrow edge of the cassette (80). Actuation channels (110) within the cassette lead from the actuation ports (96) to actuation chambers of the valves and pumps in a space between plates (86,90,88) that comprise the cassette (80). The individual plates (86,90,88) have a nominal thickness that is sufficient to provide a rigid ceiling for the actuation channels (110), but sufficiently thin to minimize the overall thickness of the cassette. A plurality of such cassettes (80) can be stacked together or spaced apart from each other to form a cassette assembly, providing for a convenient way to install and remove the cassette assembly from its actuation receptacle. The arrangement allows for an improved way of connecting a complex cassette assembly to its associated pressure distribution manifold without the use of a plurality of flexible connecting tubes between the two.

Water Distillation Apparatus, Method and System

A distillation device may comprise a source fluid input and an evaporator in fluid communication therewith. The device may further comprise a compressor having an impeller coupled to a motor, the compressor having a low pressure inlet for vapor from the evaporator and a high pressure outlet for compressed vapor. The device may further comprise at least one temperature sensor configured to monitor temperature of vapor in the inlet and a condenser in heat transfer relationship with exterior surfaces of the evaporator and in fluid communication with the compressor outlet. The device may further comprise a controller configured to govern rotation speed of the impeller with an impeller motor command based on a calibrated motor speed for the distillation device. The controller may be configured to determine an adjusted motor speed for a next use of the device and overwrite the calibrated motor speed with the adjusted motor speed.

membrane separation devices, systems and methods employing them and data management systems and methods

resumo patente de invenção: "dispositivos de separação de membrana, sistemas e métodos que empregam os mesmos e sistemas e métodos de gerenciamento de dados". a presente invenção refere-se a um dispositivo de separação de membrana que é revelado junto com sistemas e métodos que empregam o dispositivo nos procedimentos de processamento de sangue. em uma modalidade, um separador de membrana giratória é fornecido no qual pelo menos duas zonas ou regiões são criadas no vão entre a membrana e o invólucro de forma que a mistura do fluido entre as duas regiões seja inibida por uma nervura radial associada à membrana que diminui o vão entre a membrana e o invólucro para definir duas regiões de fluido, a crista isola o fluido nas duas regiões para minimizar a mistura entre os dois. sistemas e métodos automatizados são revelados para separar uma unidade de sangue total coletado previamente em componentes como células vermelhas concentradas e plasma para coletar células vermelhas e plasma diretamente de um doador em uma única etapa e para lavagem de células. sistemas e métodos de gerenciamento de dados e métodos de pré-ativação também são revelados. patent specification: "membrane separation devices, systems and methods employing same and data management systems and methods". The present invention relates to a membrane separation device which is disclosed in conjunction with systems and methods that employ the device in blood processing procedures. In one embodiment, a rotating membrane separator is provided in which at least two zones or regions are created in the gap between the membrane and the housing such that fluid mixing between the two regions is inhibited by a membrane-associated radial rib which decreases the gap between the membrane and the shell to define two fluid regions, the ridge isolates fluid in the two regions to minimize mixing between the two. Automated systems and methods are disclosed for separating a unit of previously collected whole ...

Provisioning of wireless connectivity for devices using nfc

The claimed subject matter provides a system and/or a method that facilitates connecting a wireless device to a secure network. A device can establish a near field communication link with a verified device on a network, wherein the near field communication link can be a secure and/or encrypted link to provision the device without compromising security constraints within the network. An installation component can invoke the transfer of provisioning data to the network via the near field communication link to secure a wireless connection for the device to the network.

Tuned mass-spring damper

A wheel/hub assembly includes an axle shaft, a wheel, and a hub supporting the wheel on the axle shaft. The wheel/hub assembly has a target resonant frequency of vibration. A tuned mass-spring damper is vibrationally coupled to the wheel/hub assembly, and has a counteracting resonant frequency of vibration that is predetermined with reference to the target resonant frequency of vibration.

Auto-adjust cylinder used with bead width adjusting apparatus

A chucking apparatus for positioning a tire in a tire uniformity machine includes an upper chuck assembly, a lower chuck assembly operative with the upper chuck assembly to capture a tire therebetween, and a dual piston cylinder coupled to the lower chuck assembly which moves the tire into engagement with the upper chuck assembly. The dual piston cylinder has an axially extending inner piston rod from which axially extends a field-replaceable inner piston stem.

Tire tread

Water distillation apparatus, method and system

A water vapor distillation system. The system includes a water vapor distillation device configured to receive a volume of source water from a fluid source and produce distillate, the device comprising: a concentrate flow path comprising a concentrate output; a distillate flow path comprising a distillate output; at least one source proportioning valve; a first heat exchanger comprising at least a portion of the distillate flow path; a second heat exchanger including at least a portion of the concentrate flow path, wherein the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger in fluid flow communication with the fluid source; a distillate sensor assembly in communication with the distillate flow path and located downstream the first heat exchanger, the distillate sensor assembly configured to generate a distillate temperature measurement; and a controller configured to control the source proportioning valves, the controller configured to: receive the distillate temperature measurement; determine the difference between a first target temperature and the distillate temperature measurement; and split the source water from the fluid source between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger based on the difference between the first target temperature and the distillate temperature measurement.

Wristwatch

Electric switch

Control systems and methods for blood or fluid handling medical devices

A processor of a medical device configured to communicate with a remote server can be programmed to protect the medical device from exposure to unauthorized or malicious software. A system or method to implement this form of protection can include, for example, at least one processor on the medical device, a control software module that controls the operation of the medical device and is executable on the processor, a data management module that manages data flow to and from the control software module from sources external to the medical device, and an agent module that has access to a limited number of designated memory locations in the medical device. In addition, a hemodialysis apparatus can be configured to operate in conjunction with an apparatus for providing purified water from a source such as a municipal water supply or a well. A system for controlling delivery of purified water to the hemodialysis apparatus can comprise a therapy controller of the hemodialysis apparatus configured to communicate with a controller of a water purification device, and a user interface controller of the hemodialysis apparatus configured to communicate with the therapy controller, and to send data to and receive data from a user interface.

Railroad-track construction.

Membrane separation devices, systems and methods employing same, and data management systems and methods

A membrane separation device is disclosed along with systems and methods employing the device in blood processing procedures. In one embodiment, a spinning membrane separator is provided in which at least two zones or regions are created in the gap between the membrane and the shell, such that mixing of the fluid between the two regions is inhibited by a radial rib associated with the membrane that decreases the gap between the membrane and the shell to define two fluid regions, the ridge isolating the fluid in the two regions to minimize mixing between the two. Automated systems and methods are disclosed for separating a unit of previously collected whole blood into components, such as concentrated red cells and plasma, for collecting red cells and plasma directly from a donor in a single pass, and for cell washing. Data management systems and methods and priming methods are also disclosed.

Power control system with clutch braking function

A control system for operating a work vehicle powertrain includes an engine configured to generate power for an output shaft. The control system includes a transmission positioned operatively between the engine and the output shaft and configured to selectively transfer the power along a power flow path between the engine and the output shaft. The transmission includes an input shaft; at least one intermediate shaft; at least one directional clutch; and intermediate clutches configured for selective engagement to transfer power between the at least one intermediate shaft and the output shaft. A controller is configured to receive a vehicle stop request to stop the work vehicle; implement, upon receiving the vehicle stop request, a clutch braking function; and generate, upon the implementation of the clutch braking function, clutch commands to engage at least two of the intermediate clutches selected such that the output shaft is slowed and stopped.

Tobacco-cleaner.

Vehicle vending machine

Systems, methods, non-transitory processor-readable storage media, and devices of the various embodiments enable a vehicle vending machine to retrieve a vehicle from a storage location and deliver the vehicle to a delivery bay for delivery to a customer. Various embodiments may include a vehicle vending machine including a tower, a robotic carrier, a corridor extending from the tower, a plurality of delivery bays positioned along the corridor, a customer interaction kiosk, and/or a video system.

Multi-vessel drink containers

Multi-vessel drink containers. In examples, a multi-vessel drink container includes a primary vessel, a secondary vessel, a primary closure configured to close the primary vessel, and a secondary closure configured to close the secondary vessel. In examples, the primary closure includes a primary closure base portion that defines a storage compartment and a compartment closure configured to close the storage compartment. In examples, the secondary vessel is configured to be selectively transitioned between a nested configuration, in which the secondary vessel is operatively coupled to the primary vessel, and a drink configuration, in which the secondary vessel is removed from the primary vessel. In examples, the secondary closure is configured to be selectively transitioned between a stowed configuration, in which the secondary closure is received within the storage compartment, and a use configuration, in which the secondary closure is operatively coupled to the secondary vessel.

Control systems for blood or fluid handling medical devices

Providing wireless connection for devices using NFC

Hemostasis valves and methods of use

Devices, systems, and methods for sealing medical devices, particularly during intravascular access, are disclosed herein. Some aspects relate to a hemostatic valve for sealing a wide range of medical devices, such as catheters, wires, embolectomy systems. The valve can include an elongate member having a first end, a second end, and a central lumen extending therebetween. A reinforcement structure extends along at least a portion of the elongate member and is coupled to the elongate member. A shell defining a first aperture and a second aperture may be included, which first and second apertures can be fluidly coupled by the elongate member. A tensioning mechanism is coupled to the shell and to the elongate member, the tensioning mechanism can be moveable between a first configuration wherein the tensioning mechanism is collapsed and the central lumen is sealed and a second configuration wherein the central lumen is open.

Tire tread

Instrument for separating ions including an interface for transporting generated ions thereto

An instrument for separating ions may include an ion source in a first pressure environment at a first pressure and configured to generate ions from a sample, an ion separation instrument, controlled to an instrument pressure that is less than the first pressure, and configured to separate ions as a function of at least one molecular characteristic and an interface, controlled to a second pressure less than the first pressure and greater than the instrument pressure, for transporting the generated ions from the first pressure environment into the ion separation instrument operating at the instrument pressure. The interface may include a sealed ion funnel defining an axial passageway therethrough, and an ion carpet sealed to the first ion funnel. A portion of the axial passageway tapers from a first cross-sectional area to a reduced cross-sectional area such that the tapered axial passageway defining a virtual jet disrupter therein.

System and method for controlling outlet flow of a device for separating cellular suspensions

A system for separating a suspension of biological cells is disclosed comprising a single-use fluid circuit and a durable hardware component. The fluid circuit comprises a separator having a housing that includes an inlet for introducing the suspension of biological cells into the gap, a first outlet in communication with the gap for flowing a first type of cells from the separator, and a second outlet in communication with the second side of the filter membrane for flowing a second type of cells from the separator. The hardware component comprises a pump for flowing the suspension of biological cells to the inlet of the separator and at least one flow control device associated with the first outlet and the second outlet of the separator for selectively opening and closing the outlets so as to permit one of the first type of cells and the second type of cells to flow out of the separator in accordance with a predetermined duty cycle equal to the ratio of a target flow rate of first type of cells through the first outlet to the predetermined inlet flow rate.

Hemostasis valves and methods of use

Devices, systems, and methods for sealing medical devices, particularly during intravascular access, are disclosed herein. Some aspects relate to a hemostatic valve for sealing a wide range of medical devices, such as catheters, wires, embolectomy systems. The valve can include an elongate member having a first end, a second end, and a central lumen extending therebetween. A reinforcement structure extends along at least a portion of the elongate member and is coupled to the elongate member. A shell defining a first aperture and a second aperture may be included, which first and second apertures can be fluidly coupled by the elongate member. A tensioning mechanism is coupled to the shell and to the elongate member, the tensioning mechanism can be moveable between a first configuration wherein the tensioning mechanism is collapsed and the central lumen is sealed and a second configuration wherein the central lumen is open.

Membrane separation devices, systems and methods employing same, and data management systems and methods

A membrane separation device is disclosed along with systems and methods employing the device in blood processing procedures. In one embodiment, a spinning membrane separator is provided in which at least two zones or regions are created in the gap between the membrane and the shell, such that mixing of the fluid between the two regions is inhibited by a radial rib associated with the membrane that decreases the gap between the membrane and the shell to define two fluid regions, the ridge isolating the fluid in the two regions to minimize mixing between the two. Automated systems and methods are disclosed for separating a unit of previously collected whole blood into components, such as concentrated red cells and plasma, for collecting red cells and plasma directly from a donor in a single pass, and for cell washing. Data management systems and methods and priming methods are also disclosed.

Provisioning of wireless connectivity for devices using nfc.

El tema reivindicado proporciona un sistema y/o un metodo que facilita conectar un dispositivo inalambrico a una red segura. Un dispositivo puede establecer un enlace de comunicacion de campo cercano con un dispositivo verificado en una red, en donde el enlace de comunicacion de campo cercano puede ser un enlace seguro y/o codificado cripticamente para provision del dispositivo sin comprometer limitaciones de seguridad dentro de la red. Un componente de instalacion puede invocar la transferencia de datos de provision a la red a traves del enlace de comunicacion de campo cercano para asegurar una conexion inalambrica para el dispositivo a la red.

SHARP MULTIPLE LAYER LIGHTING DEVICES.

SE DESCRIBE UN DISPOSITIVO (10) OPTICO PARA LA RECOLECCION DE LUZ Y LA PRODUCCION SELECTIVA O CONCENTRACION DE LA LUZ. UNA CAPA (12) TIENE UN INDICE OPTICO DE REFRACCION N1, Y PARTE SUPERIOR (14), FONDO (16) Y SUPERFICIES LATERALES DE INTERSECCION PARA DEFINIR UN ANGULO DE INCLINACION. UNA SUPERFICIE (20) ATRAVIESA LA PARTE SUPERIOR, EL FONDO Y LA SUPERFICIES LATERALES. UNA PRIMERA CAPA (28) ESTA ACOPLADA A LA SUPERFICIE (16) DEL FONDO DE LA CAPA Y DISPONE DE UN INDICE DE REFRACCION N2. EL INDICE N2 DE LA PRIMERA CAPA ORIGINA LA ENTRADA DE LUZ A TRAVES DE LA SUPERFICIE (20) POSTERIOR DE LA CAPA (12) PARA SER PREFERENTEMENTE PRODUCIDA DENTRO DE LA PRIMERA CAPA (28). UNA SEGUNDA CAPA (30) ESTA ACOPLADA AL FONDO DE LA PRIMERA CAPA (28) Y ORIGINA DE FORMA SELECTIVA LA SALIDA DE LA LUZ AL AMBIENTE. LA CAPA PUEDE TENER TAMBIEN UN INDICE VARIABLE DE REFRACCION N (X, Y, Z). AN OPTICAL DEVICE (10) IS DESCRIBED FOR THE COLLECTION OF LIGHT AND THE SELECTIVE PRODUCTION OR CONCENTRATION OF LIGHT. A LAYER (12) HAS AN OPTICAL INDEX OF REFRACTION N1, AND UPPER PART (14), BOTTOM (16) AND SIDE SURFACES OF INTERSECTION TO DEFINE AN ANGLE OF INCLINATION. A SURFACE (20) CROSSES THE UPPER PART, THE BOTTOM AND THE SIDE SURFACES. A FIRST LAYER (28) IS COUPLED TO THE SURFACE (16) OF THE BOTTOM OF THE LAYER AND HAS A REFRACTION INDEX N2. INDEX N2 OF THE FIRST LAYER ORIGINS THE LIGHT INPUT THROUGH THE SURFACE (20) AFTER THE LAYER (12) TO BE PREFERRED PRODUCED WITHIN THE FIRST LAYER (28). A SECOND LAYER (30) IS COUPLED TO THE BOTTOM OF THE FIRST LAYER (28) AND IT SELECTIVELY ORIGINS THE EXIT OF LIGHT TO THE ENVIRONMENT. THE LAYER MAY ALSO HAVE A VARIABLE INDEX OF REFRACTION N (X, Y, Z).

Connector for wooden members

Provisioning of wireless connectivity for devices using NFC

The claimed subject matter provides a system and/or a method that facilitates connecting a wireless device to a secure network. A device can establish a near field communication link with a verified device on a network, wherein the near field communication link can be a secure and/or encrypted link to provision the device without comprising security constraints within the network. An installation component can invoke the transfer of provisioning data to the network via the near filed communication link to secure a wireless connection for the device to the network.

Radiation-resistant lubricant composition

Control systems and methods for blood or fluid handling medical devices

A processor of a medical device configured to communicate with a remote server can be programmed to protect the medical device from exposure to unauthorized or malicious software. A system or method to implement this form of protection can include, for example, at least one processor on the medical device, a control software module that controls the operation of the medical device and is executable on the processor, a data management module that manages data flow to and from the control software module from sources external to the medical device, and an agent module that has access to a limited number of designated memory locations in the medical device. In addition, a hemodialysis apparatus can be configured to operate in conjunction with an apparatus for providing purified water from a source such as a municipal water supply or a well. A system for controlling delivery of purified water to the hemodialysis apparatus can comprise a therapy controller of the hemodialysis apparatus configured to communicate with a controller of a water purification device, and a user interface controller of the hemodialysis apparatus configured to communicate with the therapy controller, and to send data to and receive data from a user interface.

Blood collection system with rotating surface and reusable hardware component

A system for automated blood collection and separation is provided. In an embodiment, the automated blood collection system may include a reusable hardware component, and a pre-assembled disposable fluid circuit component configured to interface with the hardware component. The disposable component may include a donor access device for withdrawing blood from a donor; a leukoreduction filter; a source of anticoagulant; a blood separation device which includes a rotating surface and a membrane substantially permeable to plasma and substantially impermeable to red blood cells to separate the blood into concentrated red cells and plasma. A first collection container is also included in the donor access device to receive concentrated red bloods cells from the blood separation chamber. A source of preservative solution is connected with the first collection container, and a second collection container is connected with the blood separation chamber for receipt of the plasma.

Hemostasis valves and methods of use

Devices, systems, and methods for sealing medical devices, particularly during intravascular access, are disclosed herein. Some aspects relate to a hemostatic valve for sealing a wide range of medical devices, such as catheters, wires, embolectomy systems. The valve can include an elongate member having a first end, a second end, and a central lumen extending therebetween. A reinforcement structure extends along at least a portion of the elongate member and is coupled to the elongate member. A shell defining a first aperture and a second aperture may be included, which first and second apertures can be fluidly coupled by the elongate member. A tensioning mechanism is coupled to the shell and to the elongate member, the tensioning mechanism can be moveable between a first configuration wherein the tensioning mechanism is collapsed and the central lumen is sealed and a second configuration wherein the central lumen is open.