Methods and devices for separation of blood components

An automated method to separate previously fractionated blood components, wherein the automated method utilizes the output from visual processing algorithms as active feedback control.

A device for separating, moving and storing components of a biological sample, wherein the device comprises a piercing post to receive a sample, such that a sample vessel and the piercing post are in fluid communication, and at least a first and second arm extending perpendicular to the length of the piercing post/sample vessel complex in opposite directions, wherein each at least first and second arm has a bend at the distal end of the perpendicular segment, and a second portion of each arm which extends from the bend in a direction perpendicular to the first segment and parallel to the piercing post, such that the distal ends of the piercing post and the second portion of the arms are in opposite directions.

A method of separating blood components comprising using a controlled filter membrane that moves downward in a sample vessel at a rate equal to the anticipated sedimentation rate of the blood cells.

A method for separating plasma from other fractionated blood components, comprising the steps of:

• adding an immiscible liquid to a sample vessel containing blood components;
• tilting the vessel to a pinching position, wherein the immiscible fluid pinches off a portion of the plasma from the remainder of the blood components.

An automated device for holding and tilting one or more sample vessels to achieve an isolated portion of plasma.