Continuous centrifugal isolating system and methods of use thereof

Abstract

The inventive technology described herein includes a novel mechanical apparatus and system which allows centrifugation of small micron sized particles. The invention allows for continuous separation of ultrasound contrast agents (microbubbles) from lipid solution via centrifugation assisted by a motor. The system allows for mass isolation and collection of microbubbles. The invention also allows for the dispensation of lipid solution. In one preferred embodiment, dilute microbubble solution is introduced to the system and subjected to a centrifugal force such that the particles migrate towards the center and collectively rises for extraction, while the lipid solution dispenses and is replace with an equal volume of dilute solution. In one preferred embodiment, the device includes a rotating column or cylinder driven by a belt drive assembly, with the column being supported by annular bearings on both ends. The bearings allow rotation of the outer cylinder independent of stationary input cylinder and output components.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.