Importance

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Abstract

An improved cell separator is provided that includes apparatus for automatically controlling the cell separation process. Particularly, a plurality of valves are responsive to a data processor assembly for controlling the path of fluid flow through the cell separator. A plurality of sensors are provided for providing sensor signals indicative of the density of fluid flowing through the cell separator. The microprocessor is responsive to the sensor signals for controlling the flow and operation of the cell separator. A parastaltic pump is responsive to the microprocessor assembly for controlling the speed and direction of fluid flow through the system. A stirplate assembly is responsive to a drive signal from the data processor assembly for controllably agitating the contents of a column. The data processor assembly is further responsive to the sensor input to provide the valve control signals and pump control signal to control the concentration of selected cells that are collected. The improved cell separator further includes an improved stirplate assembly having a column with a stirbar rotatably supported therein. The stirbar includes a magnet section and a stem extending outward from the magnet section. First and second propellor blades are mounted to the stem for increasing the agitation provided to the contents of the column by the stirbar. A stirplate is provided for developing a rotating magnetic field, magnetically coupled to the stirbar magnets, to rotate the stirbar. The stirplate includes a Hall effect sensor for providing a stirbar position signal indicative of the change in magnetic field as a result of rotation of the magnets. The cell separator data processor is responsive to the stirbar position signal for controlling the change in the moving magnetic field thereby to control the speed of rotation of the stirbar.

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First Claim