A system for automated operation of a blood separation system controlling the
input
of blood samples, the separation of blood components, and the discharge of the
components. The system includes a blood reservoir and centrifuge for receiving
blood samples and separating the blood components. A sensor determines when adequate
separation has been achieved and a controller receives signals from the sensor
to operate a centrifuge drive assembly to achieve desired separation. Separation
may be based on a calibrated rotation time for the centrifuge as measured by a
timer. An input pump pumps blood samples to the blood reservoir, and an outlet
pump removes separated samples from the blood reservoir. The inlet and outlet pumps
are operated by the controller, and the inlet pump may be operated to discharge
separated components not collected by the blood separation system, whereby additional
sample volume is added for ongoing operation.
