Adjustment of the primary magnetic field in a magnetic resonance system

Abstract

In a general embodiment, the primary magnetic field is tuned in a magnetic resonance system. In some embodiments, the magnetic resonance system includes a primary magnet configured to generate a primary magnetic field, a resonator defining a sample region in the primary magnetic field, and a support assembly supporting the primary magnet. The support assembly includes a plurality of actuators configured to tune the sample region in the primary magnetic field by moving the primary magnet relative to the resonator. The plurality of actuators are configured to tune the sample region in at least five spatial degrees of freedom (e.g., position, orientation, or both).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] [Cross - Reference to Related Applications] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 504,138, filed May 24, 2023, entitled "Adjusting a Primary Magnetic Field in a Magnetic Resonance System". The above - mentioned priority document is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Background Art

[0002] The following description relates to adjusting the location and orientation of a primary magnetic field in a magnetic resonance system.

[0003] Magnetic resonance systems are used to investigate various types of samples and phenomena. In some magnetic resonance applications, the spins of the sample are polarized by a primary magnetic field, and the resonator operates on the spins by creating a drive magnetic field at a frequency near the resonance frequency of the spins. Examples of magnetic resonance applications include, for example, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and the like.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0004] [Figure 1] A schematic diagram showing an exemplary aspect of a magnetic resonance system. [Figure 2A] A side schematic diagram showing an exemplary aspect of a magnetic resonance system. [Figure 2B] A side schematic diagram showing an exemplary aspect of a magnetic resonance system. [Figure 3A] A perspective schematic diagram showing an exemplary aspect of the magnet assembly of a magnetic resonance system. [Figure 3B] A perspective schematic diagram showing an exemplary aspect of the magnet assembly of a magnetic resonance system. [Figure 3C] A perspective schematic diagram showing an exemplary aspect of the magnet assembly of a magnetic resonance system. [Figure 3D]This is a schematic perspective view showing an exemplary configuration of a magnet assembly in a magnetic resonance system. [Figure 3E] This is a schematic perspective view showing an exemplary configuration of a magnet assembly in a magnetic resonance system. [Figure 3F] This is a schematic perspective view showing an exemplary configuration of a magnet assembly in a magnetic resonance system. [Figure 3G] This is a schematic perspective view showing an exemplary configuration of a magnet assembly in a magnetic resonance system. [Figure 3H] This is a schematic perspective view showing an exemplary configuration of a magnet assembly in a magnetic resonance system. [Figure 3I] This is a schematic perspective view showing an exemplary configuration of a magnet assembly in a magnetic resonance system. [Figure 3J] This is a schematic perspective view showing an exemplary configuration of a magnet assembly in a magnetic resonance system. [Figure 3K] This is a schematic perspective view showing an exemplary configuration of a magnet assembly in a magnetic resonance system. [Figure 3L] This is a schematic perspective view showing an exemplary configuration of a magnet assembly in a magnetic resonance system. [Figure 4A] These are schematic side and perspective views illustrating exemplary configurations of magnetic resonance systems. [Figure 4B] These are schematic side and perspective views illustrating exemplary configurations of magnetic resonance systems. [Figure 4C] These are schematic side and perspective views illustrating exemplary configurations of magnetic resonance systems. [Figure 5] This flowchart shows an exemplary process for operating a magnetic resonance system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0005] In some aspects relating to the subject matter described herein, a magnetic resonance system includes an actuator that enables adjustment of the primary magnetic field (its location, orientation, or both) in multiple spatial degrees of freedom. For example, the actuator may enable independent translation of the primary magnetic field in multiple spatial degrees of freedom (to adjust its location) and independent rotation of the primary magnetic field in multiple spatial degrees of freedom (to adjust its orientation).

[0006] In some embodiments, a magnetic resonance system includes a primary magnet, a resonator, and a support assembly that supports the primary magnet. The primary magnet can generate a primary magnetic field that polarizes the spin ensemble of a sample, and the resonator assembly can generate a driving magnetic field that manipulates the spin. Since the primary magnet can be small in size and lightweight, the magnetic resonance system may be portable and lightweight, have a small footprint, or have a combination of these characteristics. In some embodiments, the support assembly may be used to adjust the position and orientation of the primary magnetic field relative to the sample area.

[0007] In some embodiments, the support assembly can offer several advantages. For example, the support assembly can enable the use of a small primary magnet, securely support the primary magnet in the magnetic resonance system, and allow for the removal of the primary magnet from the magnetic resonance system for maintenance and inspection, and for easy access to components behind or confined by the primary magnet (e.g., a resonator or control circuit confined in a cryogenic maintenance device). The support assembly can allow for adjustment of the primary magnetic field in multiple degrees of freedom (e.g., adjustment in space relative to the sample region) for precise matching of homogeneous regions of the primary and driving magnetic fields (e.g., perpendicular to each other at maximum).

[0008] Embodiments of the systems and techniques described herein can be adapted to various types of magnetic resonance systems. For example, computer systems, programmable controllers, and other hardware components can be adapted to nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) systems, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) systems, or other types of magnetic resonance systems. As another example, the systems and techniques described herein can be deployed in magnetic resonance systems that include probes within probeless magnetic resonance systems. In some cases, magnetic resonance systems can be adapted to operate with liquid samples, solid samples, liquid crystal samples, spin-labeled protein samples, biological samples (e.g., blood samples, urine samples, saliva samples, etc.), or other types of samples that will be measured or otherwise analyzed by the magnetic resonance system. As yet another example, a magnetic resonance system may include components that operate in cryogenic environments (e.g., other cryogenic temperatures lower than 77K, 4K, or 273K), or a magnetic resonance system may operate at non-cryogenic temperatures, including room temperature.

[0009] In some cases, the systems and techniques described herein may be compatible with multiple different types of resonators, cryogenic systems, probe configurations, and other components of various magnetic resonance systems. For example, the systems and techniques may be designed to be compatible with non-superconducting resonators and superconducting resonators fabricated from various superconducting materials. The resonator may be, for example, a microstrip, an array of microstrips, a gap, a coil, a coplanar waveguide (CPW), or another type of resonator for magnetic resonance systems. Furthermore, the resonator may be, for example, a rectangular gap resonator, a cylindrical gap resonator, a dielectric resonator, a loop gap resonator, or any lumped element resonator. In some cases, the systems and techniques presented herein may be developed in conjunction with various cryogenic systems, such as compact closed-cycle systems, open-cycle systems, and liquid cryogenic systems. In some cases, the systems and techniques presented herein may be developed in conjunction with various probes, including compact probe designs that may allow the use of low-noise cryogenic receiver amplifiers in various configurations without interfering with sample exchange methods. In some cases, a combination of these advantages, and possibly other advantages, and improvements can be obtained.

[0010] In some cases, the techniques and systems described herein may be developed in conjunction with continuous wave (CW) magnetic resonance (e.g., using CW ESR spectroscopy or CW NMR spectroscopy techniques), pulsed magnetic resonance (e.g., using pulsed ESR spectroscopy or pulsed NMR spectroscopy techniques), or combinations of these and other MR regions. In a typical continuous wave (CW) spectroscopy experiment, the resonator applies a low-power continuous excitation field (e.g., a radio frequency or microwave frequency driven field) to the sample over a relatively long period (e.g., relative to a characteristic relaxation time) to bring the spin ensemble to a stable state. The resonance frequency of the spins is swept over a range (by sweeping the main magnetic field), and the resulting absorption or reflectance spectrum is measured. In a typical pulsed spectroscopy experiment, while the main magnetic field is kept constant, the resonator applies a series of strong, high-power pulses (e.g., radio frequency or microwave pulses) to the sample. The obtained spin state can then be observed, for example, by acquiring free induction decay (FID) or spin echo, and then a spectrum can be obtained by performing a Fourier transform on it.

[0011] The systems and techniques described herein can be adapted to various types of applications. For example, the systems and techniques described herein can be used for structural biological measurements to measure the structural properties of proteins or protein complexes in biological samples (e.g., blood samples, urine samples, saliva samples, sweat samples, or other types of biological samples). Such measurements may be useful in understanding the structure and function of membrane proteins in clinical applications, such as diagnosis, therapy, and drug discovery / development, as well as in other applications.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing aspects of an exemplary magnetic resonance system 100. Generally, the exemplary magnetic resonance system 100 can be an EPR system, an NMR system, or another type of magnetic resonance system. The exemplary magnetic resonance system 100 includes a computer and signal processing unit 102, a spectrometer 104, a resonator unit 106, a temperature control unit (TCU) 108, a field control unit (FCU) 110, a sample handling unit 112, and a magnet assembly 114. In some examples, each of the units of the magnetic resonance system 100 may include associated electronic circuitry and other components such as housings, ports, and the like.

[0013] In some cases, the computer and signal processing unit 102 communicates with the spectrometer 104, TCU 108, FCU 110, sampling assembly 112, magnet assembly 114, and other units / components of the magnetic resonance system 100. In some cases, the computer and signal processing unit 102 may be implemented as a single computer device (e.g., laptop computer, workstation, desktop computer, server) or by multiple computer devices. In some cases, the computer and signal processing unit 102 may be located in the same place as the spectrometer 104, resonator unit 106, and other units or components of the exemplary magnetic resonance system 100, and may be directly connected to the other units and components of the magnetic resonance system 100, for example, by cables (e.g., coaxial cables, network cables, waveguides, etc.) or other types of local communication channels. In some cases, all or part of the computer and signal processing unit 102 may be located far from the spectrometer 106 and the resonator unit 106 and be directly connected to the units and components of the magnetic resonance system 100, for example, by a network (e.g., the internet, a virtual private network, a wide area network, etc.) or other type of telecommunication channel. Some embodiments of the computer and signal processing unit 102 may be deployed in or otherwise within a cloud computing environment. In some embodiments, the computer and signal processing unit 102 includes one or more user interfaces, such as a touchscreen, pointing device, keyboard, microphone, etc., which enable a user to interact with the computer and signal processing unit 102 of the magnetic resonance system 100 and supply input to the computer and signal processing unit 102. In some embodiments, the computer and signal processing unit 102 includes one or more output devices (e.g., a graphical user interface, etc.) which enable the computer and signal processing unit 102 to present information and data for display to the user.

[0014] The computer and signal processing unit 102 may include, for example, a central processor unit (CPU) or another type of general-purpose processor for running software. The computer and signal processing unit 102 may include, for example, a graphics processing unit (GPU), a cryptographic processor unit, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) unit, a digital signal processing (DSP) unit, or another type of data processing device. In some cases, the computer and signal processing unit 102 may be configured to perform digital signal processing and signal averaging. In particular, the computer and signal processing unit 102 may be configured to identify a pulse sequence for a magnetic resonance experiment, generate a set of digital intermediate frequency (IF) signal information by modulating each pulse of the pulse sequence at an intermediate frequency, generate a hardware control sequence based on the pulse sequence, convert the digital IF signal information and hardware control sequence to the signal processing unit 104, generate a digitized magnetic resonance detection signal, demodulate the digitized magnetic resonance detection signal at an intermediate frequency for phase-sensitive detection, and display the data. In some cases, the computer and signal processing unit 102 may be configured to perform other operations. For example, the computer and signal processing unit 102 may be configured to generate multiple resonance pulses by modulating pulses of a pulse sequence at different intermediate frequencies and superimposing the modulated pulses, for example, in order to perform multiple magnetic resonance measurements. In this case, the computer and signal processing unit 102 may further be configured to demodulate the digitized magnetic resonance detection signal at multiple intermediate frequencies. In some cases, the computer and signal processing unit 102 may be controlled by software to execute a pre-configured program stored in the memory unit of the computer and signal processing unit 102.

[0015] The computer and signal processing unit 102 may be configured to generate an analog IF electrical signal based on the digital IF signal value according to a hardware control sequence and transmit the analog IF electrical signal to the resonator unit 106 via the spectrometer 104. The computer and signal processing unit 102 can further receive a nuclear magnetic resonance detection signal from the resonator unit 106 via the spectrometer 104. The nuclear magnetic resonance detection signal includes signals having amplitude, phase, and frequency modulation at an intermediate frequency and can be digitized by the operation of the computer and signal processing unit 102. The digitized nuclear magnetic resonance detection signal (e.g., a spin signal) can be demodulated by the operation of the computer and signal processing unit 102 for further processing (e.g., for measurement, pulse transient control, and correction). In some embodiments, the computer and signal processing unit 102 may be implemented as the computer and signal processing unit 606 of the exemplary nuclear magnetic resonance system 600 in FIGS. 6A - 6C or in another manner. In some cases, the computer and signal processing unit 102 may be configured to perform other operations.

[0016] In some cases, the spectrometer 104 includes microwave or radio frequency hardware components (e.g., switches, mixers, amplifiers, attenuators, etc.) that generate and receive microwave or radio frequency signals. For example, the spectrometer 104 may be configured to process signals in single-sideband X-band (8-12 GHz), Ku-band (12-18 GHz), Q-band (33-50 GHz), W-band (75-110 GHz), or other microwave frequency bands. In some examples, the spectrometer 104 may include a low-phase-noise microwave synthesizer for generating a system master oscillator signal and an analog spectrometer local oscillator signal, an IQ mixer for upconverting the analog IF electrical signal to a single-sideband signal that can be applied to the resonator unit 106, and for providing local oscillator suppression and image suppression, and a band filter for suppressing noise outside the spectrometer bandwidth on the transmitter side. In some cases, the spectrometer 104 may include other circuit components. In some embodiments, the spectrometer 104 can receive analog IF electrical signals from the computer and signal processing unit 102 and output a magnetic resonance control signal (e.g., an upconverted single-band analog IF electrical signal). In some embodiments, the magnetic resonance control signal has a frequency in the radio frequency or microwave region. In the example shown in Figure 1, the magnetic resonance control signal from the spectrometer 104 is passed to the resonator unit 106.

[0017] In some cases, the spectrometer 104 may be digitally controlled by digital control signals from a computer and a signal processing unit 102. In some cases, the spectrometer 104 may include one or more switching and amplifier devices. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the spectrometer 104 operates at an elevated temperature away from the cryogenic environment, for example, room temperature. In some embodiments, some components of the spectrometer 104 can operate in the cryogenic environment, for example, the same or a different cryogenic environment where the resonator unit 106 is present. In some examples, the spectrometer 104 may be digitally controlled to perform rapid switching between pulsed operation mode and continuous wave operation mode. In some embodiments, the spectrometer 104 may be implemented as the spectrometer 404 of the exemplary magnetic resonance system 400 in Figures 4A-4C, or in other forms. In some embodiments, the spectrometer 104 may include other components or be configured to perform other operations.

[0018] In some cases, the spectrometer 104 may include an amplifier (e.g., a cryogenic LNA apparatus). In some embodiments, the spectrometer 104 transmits the magnetic resonance detection signal to the local oscillator frequency (f LO By mixing it with the intermediate frequency (f IF The spectrometer 104 may also include a mixer device for down-converting to f. The spectrometer 104 may further include a filter device to remove unwanted frequency components, for example, from the mixer device to f. LO ~f IF Remove frequencies near the frequency value and reduce the receiver bandwidth (±f IFThe spectrometer 104 may include a band-band IF filter to suppress noise outside the specified frequency range. The spectrometer 104 may further include other components, such as an IF amplifier, a low-pass filter, and other circuit components. In some cases, the spectrometer 104 may include various stages of filtering and amplification to reduce the noise bandwidth. The spectrometer 104 shown in Figure 1 can accept both a low-level spin signal input and a high-level pulse transient digitization input. In some examples, the spectrometer 104 may be controlled to switch between operating modes, for example, between a magnetic resonance measurement mode and a pulse transient digitization / correction mode.

[0019] In some cases, the spectrometer 104 may be configured to process signals in single-sideband X-band signals (8–12 GHz), Ku-band signals (12–18 GHz), Q-band signals (33–50 GHz), W-band signals (75–110 GHz), or other microwave frequency bands. For example, the spectrometer 104 may include single-stage upconversion or downconversion using a single microwave synthesizer device configured to generate LO signals in each microwave frequency band. In another example, the spectrometer 104 may include two or more stages upconversion or downconversion using two or more microwave synthesizers and two or more corresponding mixer devices.

[0020] In the example shown in Figure 1, the components of the spectrometer 104 are electromagnetically coupled to the resonator unit 106 (e.g., by coaxial cable, waveguide, etc.) and adapted to communicate with the resonator unit 106. For example, the spectrometer 104 may be adapted to provide a voltage or current electrical signal to drive the resonator unit 106. In the example shown in Figure 1, the spectrometer 104 can further acquire magnetic resonance data based on control signals delivered to the resonator device 106. For example, the spectrometer 104 can receive a magnetic resonance detection signal generated by the interaction between the resonator unit 106 and the sample contained in the resonator unit 106, based on the magnetic resonance control signal received in the resonator unit 106.

[0021] In some embodiments, the magnetic resonance system 100 includes a superheterodyne spectrometer system. Generally, the superheterodyne spectrometer generates a magnetic resonance control signal by mixing an intermediate frequency (IF) signal with a local oscillator (LO) signal to produce a high-frequency (e.g., RF or microwave) signal, which may then be further processed and passed to a resonator unit 106. The superheterodyne spectrometer processes the high-frequency magnetic resonance detection signal (e.g., spin signal) from the resonator unit 106 by mixing the high-frequency signal with the LO signal to produce an IF signal, which may then be further processed and digitized for analysis by a data processing device 102. Among the advantages of superheterodyne operation, it can enable increased sensitivity, selectivity, and signal-to-noise ratio. In some cases, superior control and data processing can be achieved by generating control information and processing the detected signal at the IF frequency. Furthermore, by using one or more tunable local oscillators, the superheterodyne spectrometer can be tuned to multiple distinct spin resonance frequencies, thereby enabling the superheterodyne spectrometer to function as a multi-functional system.

[0022] In some embodiments, the resonator unit 106 resides in a cryogenic environment (e.g., at a cryogenic temperature lower than 77K, 4K, or 273K), for example, within a cryogenic maintenance device. The resonator unit 106 includes a resonator that generates an electromagnetic field (e.g., a driving magnetic field) in the sample region of a magnetic resonance system defined by the resonator, according to a control signal received in the resonator. The resonator unit 106 may also include signal wiring for transmitting microwave signals and digital control signals, cryogenic receiver components, and internal hardware for temperature setting and stabilization. In some cases, a computer and signal processing unit 102 can also transmit control signals to the resonator unit 106. In some cases, the resonator can be, for example, a non-superconducting resonator, a superconducting resonator, a microstrip, an array of microstrips, a coplanar waveguide (CPW), an air gap, a coil, a waveguide, a rectangular air gap resonator, a cylindrical air gap resonator, a dielectric resonator, a loop gap resonator, or another type of resonator. Furthermore, the resonator may be, for example, a rectangular gap resonator, a cylindrical gap resonator, a dielectric resonator, a loop gap resonator, or any lumped element resonator. In some cases, the resonator of resonator unit 106 may be implemented as resonator unit 208 in Figures 2A-2B, or in another form.

[0023] In some embodiments, the TCU 108 is configured and operated to monitor and stabilize the temperature of the cryogenic environment in which the resonator unit 106 resides. In some examples, the exemplary magnetic resonance system 100 includes other circuits or components. For example, the TCU 108 can measure and stabilize the temperatures of various components using closed-loop feedback control. In some cases, the exemplary magnetic resonance system 100 includes a cryogenic maintenance device cooled by liquid helium or liquid nitrogen, which can be maintained in a cryogenic environment (e.g., 77K, 4K, or other cryogenic temperatures lower than 273K). In certain specific examples, the cryogenic maintenance device of the exemplary magnetic resonance system 100 includes a system that does not use liquid cryogenic agents, e.g., a dry cryogenic maintenance device. In some cases, the cryogenic maintenance device of the exemplary magnetic resonance system 100 includes internal control hardware for temperature setting and stabilization.

[0024] In some embodiments, the FCU110 can be configured and operated to monitor, stabilize, and vary the primary magnetic field of a magnetic resonance system. The primary magnetic field is an external B0 magnetic field (quantized magnetic field) applied to the sample region and generated by a primary magnet 124, which can be an electromagnet, a permanent magnet, a superconducting magnet, or another type of magnet. For example, the FCU110 can measure and stabilize the quantized magnetic field using closed-loop feedback control. The FCU110 of the magnetic resonance system 100 may include a magnet configured to generate a magnetic field corresponding to X-band spin resonance (e.g., a magnetic field strength in the range of approximately 0 to 4000 G). In some embodiments, the FCU110 further includes a Hall probe that interfaces with a computer and signal processing unit 102 to receive control signals from the computer and signal processing unit 102 and apply an appropriate current to the primary magnet 124. In some embodiments, the primary magnet 124 may be the primary magnet 204 in Figures 2A-2B, or 328 in Figures 3D-3E, or in another form.

[0025] In some embodiments, the magnet assembly 114 is configured to adjust the primary magnetic field in the magnetic resonance system 100 with respect to a sample region defined by the resonator unit 106. As shown in Figure 1, the magnet assembly 114 includes a support assembly 122 and a primary magnet 124. In some embodiments of operation, the primary magnet 124 of the magnet assembly 114 of the magnetic resonance system 100 generates a primary magnetic field within a controlled environment of the sample region defined by the resonator unit 106. In some embodiments, the primary magnet 124 includes an electromagnet or another type of system that can be controlled by the FCU 110 by adjusting the current from an electromagnet power source. In some cases, the primary magnet 124 may include a gradient system that generates one or more spatially varying gradient magnetic fields across the sample region. Generally, the primary magnetic field generated by the primary magnet 124 quantizes the spin states and sets the Larmor frequency of the spin ensemble.

[0026] In some embodiments, the support assembly 122 of the magnet assembly 114 is configured to securely hold the primary magnet 124 and to adjust (e.g., correct according to a specific adjustment) the spatial position and orientation of the primary magnetic field relative to the sample area. In particular, the support assembly 122 is configured to translate the spatial position of the primary magnet 124 relative to the resonator unit 106 and rotate its spatial orientation. In some cases, the adjustment of the spatial position and orientation of the primary magnet 124 relative to the resonator unit 106 can be performed by performing a matching calibration process. In some cases, the support assembly 122 includes a mounting frame to which the primary magnet 124 is securely attached, a stage assembly to which the mounting frame can be aligned and supported, and an actuator which may be configured to adjust the location of the sample area in the primary magnetic field by moving the primary magnet 124 relative to the resonator unit 106. In some cases, the actuator may be manually adjusted, electronically controlled through a computer and signal processing unit 102, or controlled in another manner. In some embodiments, the mounting frame of the support assembly 122 holds the primary magnet 124 and is removable from the stage assembly via, for example, a roller ball or another mechanism. In some cases, the mounting assembly may be implemented as the support assemblies 202, 302 in Figures 2A-2B and 3A-3B, or in other forms.

[0027] In some embodiments of operation, a spin ensemble within a sample interacts with the resonator unit 106. Control of spins within a sample can be achieved, for example, by a radio frequency or microwave magnetic field generated by the resonator unit 106. The driving frequency may be tuned to the resonant frequency of the spins, which is determined by the strength of the primary magnetic field and the gyromagnetic ratio of the spins. A spin can be an aggregate of particles having non-zero spin that magnetically interact with an applied magnetic field. For example, a spin ensemble can include nuclear spins, electron spins, or a combination of nuclear spins and electron spins. Examples of nuclear spins include hydrogen nuclei (1H) and carbon-13 nuclei (13C). In some embodiments, a spin ensemble is an aggregate of identical spin-1 / 2 free electron spins attached to an ensemble of larger molecules.

[0028] In some embodiments, the sample handling unit 112 includes a sample transfer device configured to move and align a sample holder relative to the resonator unit 106 in the primary magnetic field generated by the primary magnet 124 of the magnetic resonance system. In some cases, the sample transfer device may be driven by an actuator system. The actuator system may be a single-degree-of-freedom linear actuator that moves the sample transfer device in a linear manner along the axis of the sample transfer device. The actuator system may be a multi-degree-of-freedom actuator that moves the sample transfer device in a linear manner along two independent (e.g., vertical) axes. In certain cases, the actuator system may be coupled to a computer and signal processing unit 102 that controls the operation of the actuator system.

[0029] Figures 2A-2B are schematic side and top views showing embodiments of a magnet assembly 200 of an exemplary magnetic resonance system. As shown in Figures 2A-2B, the exemplary magnet assembly 200 includes a support assembly 202 and a primary magnet 204. In some embodiments, the support assembly 202 is operated to adjust the position and orientation of the primary magnet 204 relative to a sample area 208 defined by a resonator unit (e.g., resonator unit 106 in Figure 1 or another type of resonator unit). In some examples, the magnet assembly 200 may include additional or different components, which may be arranged as shown or in other ways. For example, the magnet assembly 200 may include electrical circuits, a communication interface, and control components for receiving current from an external computer and signal processing unit (e.g., an external computer and signal processing unit 102 in the magnetic resonance system 100 in Figure 1).

[0030] In the example shown, the primary magnet 204 is configured to generate a primary magnetic field 210 within the sample region 208 where the magnetic resonance sample is placed during operation. The primary magnetic field 210 created by the primary magnet 204 is configured to polarize the spin in the sample region 208. The driving magnetic field created by the resonator unit can further be applied to the magnetic resonance sample in the sample region 208 to manipulate the spin in the sample region 208. In some cases, the primary magnet 204 may be a permanent magnet, an electromagnet, a superconducting magnet, a hybrid magnet, or another type of magnet. In some cases, the primary magnet 204 may be communicatively connected to the power supply or control electronics of the magnet assembly 200.

[0031] As shown in Figures 2A-2B, the support assembly 202 includes a mounting frame 212 configured to securely hold the primary magnet 204, and a stage assembly 206 configured to serve as a base on which the mounting frame 212 rests. The stage assembly 206 includes a plate 214, a locking clamp 216, and a base 205. The mounting frame 212 is securely integrated onto the plate 214 and contacts the mounting frame 214 by engaging the locking clamp 216 on the plate 214. The base 205 supports the plate 214. In some cases, the stage assembly 206 may include one or more alignment supports for aligning the mounting frame 212 when it is aligned on the plate 214.

[0032] In some embodiments, the support assembly 202 includes a plurality of actuators 218, 220 configured to adjust the sample area 208 in the primary magnetic field 210 by moving the primary magnet 204 relative to the resonator unit. The plurality of actuators 218, 220 can be operated to adjust the sample area 208 in the primary magnetic field 210 in five spatial degrees of freedom, the five spatial degrees of freedom including three linear degrees of freedom and two rotational degrees of freedom. In particular, the plate 214 of the stage assembly 206 includes an actuator 220 that can translate the mounting frame 212, thereby translating the primary magnet 204 on the mounting frame 212 along the X and / or Y directions relative to the base 205. As shown in Figure 2B, the X and Y directions are spatial directions perpendicular to each other. In some embodiments, the plate 214 further includes an actuator 220 that can be operated to rotate the mounting frame 212, thereby rotating the primary magnet 204 on the mounting frame 212 around the Z direction. As shown in Figure 2A, the Z direction is perpendicular to the X and Y directions (therefore, the X, Y, and Z directions are perpendicular to each other). In some embodiments, the mounting frame 212 includes an actuator 218 configured to move the primary magnet 204 in parallel with respect to the mounting frame 212 along the Z direction. In some cases, the actuator 218 on the mounting frame 212 can be operated to rotate the primary magnet 204 around the Y direction by fixing one actuator 218 on one end of the mounting frame 212, for example, while adjusting the other actuator 218 on the opposing end of the mounting frame 212, or adjusting two actuators 218 along opposing directions. The actuators 218, 220 of the support assembly 202 allow for independent adjustment of the position and orientation of the primary magnet 204 in three directions perpendicular to each other (e.g., the X, Y, and Z directions), as well as around two axes of rotation (e.g., the Y and Z directions).

[0033] In some cases, the actuator 220 may include two adjustable positioning pins that can be operated to perform linear adjustments along the X and Y axes. In this way, XY adjustments can be performed independently of rotational adjustments around the Z axis. For example, one adjustable positioning pin moves the primary magnet 204 only in the X direction, and the other adjustable positioning pin moves the primary magnet 204 in both the X and Y directions. In some cases, the actuator 220 may be implemented as positioning pins 322A, 322B, 408A, 408B in Figures 3B-3D, 4A-4D, or in other forms. In some examples, rotation around the Z axis can be performed by operating an eccentric cam located between the plate 214 and the base 205. In some embodiments, the actuator 220 may be implemented as eccentric cams 324, 410 in Figures 3B, 4A, 4D, or in other forms. In some cases, rotational access is defined by a pivot point located at the center of the sample area. When the orientation is properly aligned, the plate 214 can be locked into position with two over-center cams or another mechanism to prevent undesirable rotation.

[0034] In some cases, the matching of the primary magnet 204 to the sample region 208 can be measured by monitoring the spin system characteristics of a standard sample in the sample region 208, such as spectral shape or various decay times. A standard sample with clearly known and reproducible magnetic resonance properties, such as a vial of water or a human body model filled with a specific solution, may be used to perform the matching process. The standard sample can be placed in the sample region 208 in the magnetic resonance system, for example, by the operation of the sample handling unit 112 in Figure 1. The orientation and location of the primary magnet 204 can be adjusted by repeatedly operating the actuators 218, 220 of the support assembly 204 to obtain an optimized signal (e.g., a signal that satisfies a predetermined criterion).

[0035] Once the position and orientation of the primary magnet 204 are determined, the standard sample may be removed, and the sample may be placed in the sample area 208, and magnetic resonance data may be acquired (for example, by applying a pulse sequence to the resonator unit). The acquired data can then be used to verify that the sample area is properly aligned and oriented in the primary magnetic field 210. Once the position and orientation of the primary magnet 204 are determined, the primary magnet 204 can be removed and replaced without repeating the matching process. The mounting frame 212 engages with positioning pins to return the primary magnet 204 to the matched position with high precision (e.g., within + / - 1 mm, 2 mm, 5 mm, or another range). In some embodiments, the support assembly 204 can be operated to reposition the primary magnet 204, for example, when changes are made or during routine maintenance of the system.

[0036] Figures 3A–3L are schematic perspective and top views of an exemplary magnetic resonance system magnet assembly 300. As shown in Figures 3A–3D, the exemplary magnet assembly 300 includes a support assembly 302 and a primary magnet 304 configured to generate a primary magnetic field. The support assembly 302 includes a mounting frame 312 and a stage assembly 306. In some examples, the magnet assembly 300 may include additional or different components, which may be arranged as shown or in a different manner. For example, the magnet assembly 300 may include components of a cooling system for cooling the primary magnet 304, such as chiller water input / output ports, piping systems, water exchange boxes, etc.

[0037] As shown in Figures 3A to 3H, the stage assembly 306 includes a plate 314 and a locking clamp 318 for securing the mounting frame 312 to the plate 314. As shown in Figures 3A to 3H, the stage assembly 305 further includes a rolling support 320 configured to support the mounting frame 312, for example, when placing the mounting assembly 312 on the plate 314, when lowering the mounting frame 312 from the plate 314, and when adjusting the relative position of the mounting frame 312 to the plate 314. The plate 314 rests on the rolling support 320, which is fixed on a base 316. The stage assembly 306 further includes positioning pins 322A, 322B configured to translate the mounting frame 312 in the X and Y directions to adjust the position of the mounting frame 312 on the plate 314, and a cam 324 configured to rotate the mounting frame 312 about a pivot axis oriented in the Z direction to adjust its orientation relative to the mounting frame on the plate 314. In some embodiments, the mounting frame 312 contacts the plate at the positioning pins 322A, 322B. In some cases, the plate 314 is configured to provide a reference for the positioning pins 322A, 322B, and the reference can rotate around the Z direction. In some cases, the stage assembly 306 may include other components.

[0038] As shown in Figures 3B and 3D-3H, the plate 314 includes two tracks 334A and 334B associated with two positioning pins 322A and 322B. Tracks 334A and 334B have a shape that defines the respective range of movement of the positioning pins 322A and 322B. The mounting frame 312 includes a tray 320 which includes two grooves 332A and 332B associated with the two positioning pins. During operation, when the mounting frame 312 is fixed onto the plate 314, the tray 320 is pressed against the positioning pins 322A and 322B in the grooves 332A and 332B. By adjusting the position of the positioning pins 322A within track 334A, the tray 320 is pushed in groove 332A, thereby moving the mounting frame 312 in the Y direction relative to the plate 314. Similarly, by adjusting the position of the positioning pin 322B within track 334B, the tray 320 is pushed in groove 332B, thereby moving the mounting frame 312 in both the X and Y directions relative to the plate 314. As shown in Figures 3C-3D, groove 332A on the tray 320 has a rectangular shape, and groove 332B on the tray 320 has a triangular shape. In some cases, tracks 334A, 334B and grooves 332A, 332B may have other shapes or sizes and may be located in other locations within the magnet assembly 300. In some cases, the alignment pins 322A, 322B may be operated manually or controlled by a linear actuator capable of converting rotational motion into linear motion, or in another manner.

[0039] As shown in Figures 3B, 3E, and 3H, the plate 314 of the stage assembly 306 further includes a groove 336 associated with a cam 324. The cam 324 is an eccentric cam whose center of rotation is offset from its center of mass, thereby allowing the cam 324 to rotate in circular motion while also moving in linear motion, and the linear motion of the cam 324 may be used to move the plate 314 around a bearing 338. The bearing 338 may be mounted in a fixed position (for example, on the base 316). The rotational motion of the plate on the bearing 338 results in the rotational motion of the mounting frame 312 relative to the resonator unit, about the Z direction. In some cases, the cam 324 may be operated manually, either by motor control by the computer and signal processing unit 102 in Figure 1, or in another manner.

[0040] As shown in Figures 3I-3L, a mounting frame 312 for holding the primary magnet 304 is mounted on a tray 320. The primary magnet 304 is attached to the mounting frame 312 using screws or bolts. The primary magnet 304 is further supported by linear actuators 323 for translating the primary magnet 304 along the Z direction and for rotating the primary magnet 304 about the Y axis. Each linear actuator 323 includes a locking nut 348, a threaded support 344 for moving one end of the primary magnet 304, and an adjustment hexagonal nut 342 used to adjust the position of the threaded support 344. During operation, the adjustment hexagonal nut 348 is adjusted so that the threaded support 344 moves along the threaded rod, and then one end of the primary magnet 304 can move along the Z direction. In some cases, the linear actuator 323 may be adjusted to cause rotational motion of the primary magnet 304 about the Y direction.

[0041] Figures 4A–4C are perspective and side schematic views illustrating an exemplary magnetic resonance system 400. As shown in Figures 4A–4C, the exemplary magnetic resonance system 400 is a self-contained unit housed in a freestanding cabinet 412, comprising a magnet assembly 402, a spectrometer 404, a computer and signal processing unit 406, a sample handling unit 408, and a cryogenic maintenance device 410. The front door of the cabinet 412 can be opened to access the respective units and subsystems mounted on the cabinet 412's rack. The magnetic resonance system 400 can be disconnected from building utilities (e.g., electricity, clean, dry air, cooling water) and moved to a new location (e.g., between laboratories). The left instrument rack supporting the computer and signal processing unit 406 and the spectrometer 404 is part of an "all-in-one unit," thereby ensuring that cables are routed to maximize signal transmission quality to and from the cryogenic maintenance device. Cable damage can be minimized, noise emission can be reduced, and other benefits can be obtained. In some examples, the exemplary magnetic resonance system 400 may include additional or different components, which may be arranged as shown or in other ways.

[0042] As shown in Figures 4A-4C, by opening one of the front doors of the cabinet 412, the magnet cart can be rolled up, allowing the mounting frame with the primary magnet (e.g., the mounting frame 312 with the primary magnet 304 shown in Figures 3A-3J) to be lowered from the stage assembly (e.g., the stage assembly 306 in Figures 3A-3J) onto the cart, and moved outside the compartment of the cabinet 412 for replacement or other maintenance, for example, when performing maintenance on the cryogenic maintenance device 410 which is mounted on the same rack as the magnet assembly 402.

[0043] The magnet assembly 402 includes a support assembly to enable the alignment of the primary magnet to the sample area defined by the resonator unit inside the cryogenic maintenance device 410. The support assembly within the magnet assembly 402 may be implemented as support assemblies 122, 202, and 302 shown in Figures 1, 2A–2B, 3A–3J, or in another form.

[0044] The sample handling unit 408 includes a sample tower and a sightline that allow the user to observe the sample mounting location and ensure easy insertion. The sample handling unit 408 is configured to automatically place or lower cartridges or cartridge cassettes onto or off the cryogenic maintenance device 410 without requiring user input. In some embodiments, the sample handling unit 408 may be implemented as the sample handling unit 412 in Figure 1, or in other forms.

[0045] The computer and signal processing unit 406 includes an integrated keyboard, mouse, touchscreen monitor, and other input / output devices that enable direct access to system control and display of the measurement process and results. Real-time experimental data is displayed, including bipolar oscillations in distance measurements, Rabi oscillations in nutation measurements, magnetic field-dependent spin signal amplitudes in spectral measurements, or other types of data in other types of experiments. In some embodiments, the computer and signal processing unit 406 may be implemented as the computer and signal processing unit 102 in Figure 1, or in other forms.

[0046] The cryogenic maintenance device 410 may be cooled by liquid helium or liquid nitrogen, or by a closed-cycle cooling system that does not require a liquid cryogenic agent, and may be maintained in a cryogenic environment (e.g., other cryogenic temperatures lower than 77K, 4K, or 273K). In some cases, the cryogenic maintenance device 410 of an exemplary magnetic resonance system 400 includes internal control hardware for temperature setting and stabilization.

[0047] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process 500 for operating a support assembly of a magnetic resonance system. The exemplary process 500 may be used to perform a repeated adjustment process to adjust the sample region to a primary magnetic field generated by a primary magnet. In some embodiments, the exemplary process 500 may include adjusting the support assembly 302 of the magnet assembly 300 shown in Figures 3A–3J.

[0048] In some embodiments, one or more adjustments in the exemplary process 500 may be performed by an automated system. For example, the magnetic resonance system may include a control system and one or more servo motors, the control system can specify the adjustments to be made and control the servo motors to make the specified adjustments. The servo motors can receive control signals that cause them to adjust actuators in the magnetic resonance system, thereby performing the adjustments. In some embodiments, one or more adjustments in the exemplary process 500 may be performed manually.

[0049] In 502, the primary magnet is mounted on the magnetic resonance system. In some cases, the primary magnet (e.g., primary magnet 304) is supported on a mounting frame (e.g., mounting frame 312 in Figures 3A-3J) in a support assembly (e.g., support assembly 302 in Figures 3A-3J). The mounting frame can be mounted on a stage assembly (e.g., stage assembly 306 in Figures 3A-3J) of the support assembly and securely held by the stage assembly.

[0050] In 504, the support assembly is adjusted to move the primary magnet relative to the resonator unit. In some examples, the location and orientation of the primary magnet are adjusted to adjust the location and orientation of the sample region (e.g., sample region 208) within the primary magnetic field (e.g., primary magnetic field 210 in Figures 2A-2B) generated by the primary magnet (e.g., primary magnet 204 in Figures 2A-2B). In some cases, the matching of the primary magnet 204 to the sample region 208 can be measured by monitoring the spin system characteristics of a standard sample in the sample region 208, e.g., spectral shape or various decay times. A standard sample may be used to perform the matching process. The standard sample may be placed in the sample region 208 in the magnetic resonance system by the operation of the sample handling unit 112 in Figure 1, for example. The orientation and location of the primary magnet 204 can be adjusted by repeatedly operating the actuators 218, 220, alignment pins 322A, 322B, eccentric cam 324, and linear actuator 323 of the support assemblies 204, 302 in Figures 2A-2B and 3A-3J.

[0051] At 506, a magnetic resonance measurement is performed. In some embodiments of operation, exemplary magnetic resonance systems (e.g., exemplary magnetic resonance systems 100, 200, and 400 in Figures 1, 2A–2B, and 4A–4C) operate in the normal mode of magnetic resonance measurement. For example, the magnetic resonance system can perform CW EPR or CW NMR spectroscopy measurements, pulsed ESR or pulsed NMR spectroscopy measurements, or other types of magnetic resonance experiments. In these operating modes, a magnetic resonance control signal is delivered to a resonator unit (e.g., resonator unit 106), which generates a magnetic resonance control field (e.g., a pulsed or CW field) applied to the spins in the sample, and a magnetic resonance detection signal is obtained (e.g., through interaction between the spins and the resonator unit) which is processed to measure the spin's response to the magnetic resonance control field. In some cases, exemplary magnetic resonance system 100 includes electronic components for both CW and pulsed operating modes, thereby allowing the system to switch between these operating modes without hardware modifications or other interventions.

[0052] In 508, the primary magnet is removed from the magnetic resonance system. The primary magnet (e.g., primary magnet 304) supported on the mounting frame 312 may be removed from the stage assembly 306 of the support assembly 302 onto a cart, thereby allowing access to the cryogenic maintenance device 410 or other components of the magnetic resonance system, and enabling maintenance and inspection of the cryogenic maintenance device 410 or other components of the magnetic resonance system.

[0053] In a general embodiment of the above, the primary magnetic field is tuned in a magnetic resonance system.

[0054] In the first example, the magnetic resonance system includes a primary magnet configured to generate a primary magnetic field, a resonator defining a sample region in the primary magnetic field, and a support assembly supporting the primary magnet. The support assembly includes a plurality of actuators configured to adjust the sample region in the primary magnetic field by moving the primary magnet relative to the resonator. The plurality of actuators are configured to adjust the sample region in at least five spatial degrees of freedom.

[0055] Embodiments of the first example may include one or more of the following features: Multiple actuators are configured to independently adjust the sample area in the primary magnetic field in three linear degrees of freedom and two rotational degrees of freedom. A support assembly includes a mounting frame that holds the primary magnet and a stage assembly that supports the mounting frame. The stage assembly includes a plate that contacts the mounting frame, a locking clamp that secures the mounting frame to the plate, and a base that supports the plate. Multiple actuators include a first subset on the stage assembly configured to move the mounting frame relative to the resonator. Multiple actuators include a second subset on the mounting frame configured to move the primary magnet relative to the resonator.

[0056] Embodiments of the first example may include one or more of the following features: A first subset includes a first pin configured to translate the mounting frame in a first direction and a second pin configured to translate the mounting frame in a second direction. A first subset includes a cam configured to rotate the mounting frame about a first axis of rotation oriented in a third direction. The first, second, and third directions are perpendicular to each other. A second subset includes a screw configured to translate the primary magnet in a third direction and to rotate the primary magnet about a second axis of rotation oriented in a fourth direction. The magnetic resonance system includes a cart configured to move the mounting frame relative to a stage assembly. The stage assembly includes a rolling support which supports the mounting frame when the primary magnet is placed on or removed from the stage assembly. The primary magnet includes one of an electromagnet, a superconducting magnet, or a permanent magnet.

[0057] In the second example, a method for tuning a magnetic resonance system includes tuning a support assembly that supports a primary magnet. The primary magnet generates a primary magnetic field within a sample region defined by the resonator, and the primary magnet moves relative to the resonator by tuning the support assembly. The support assembly includes a plurality of actuators configured to adjust the location of the sample region in the primary magnetic field in five degrees of freedom. Tuning the support assembly includes tuning at least one of the plurality of actuators.

[0058] Embodiments of the second example may include one or more of the following features: Adjusting the sample area in the primary magnetic field includes independently adjusting three linear degrees of freedom and two rotational degrees of freedom. The support assembly includes a mounting frame that holds the primary magnet and a stage assembly that supports the mounting frame. The stage assembly includes a plate that contacts the mounting frame, a locking clamp that secures the mounting frame to the plate, and a base that supports the plate.

[0059] Embodiments of the second example may include one or more of the following features: The plurality of actuators include a first subset on a stage assembly, and adjusting the support assembly includes adjusting the first subset to move the mounting frame relative to the resonator. The plurality of actuators include a second subset on a mounting frame, and adjusting the support assembly includes adjusting the second subset to move the primary magnet relative to the resonator. The first subset includes a first pin and a second pin. Adjusting the first subset includes adjusting the first pin to translate the mounting frame in a first direction and adjusting the second pin to translate the mounting frame in a second direction. The first subset includes a cam, and adjusting the first subset includes adjusting the cam to rotate the mounting frame about a first axis of rotation oriented in a third direction. The first, second, and third directions are perpendicular to each other. The second subset includes a screw, and adjusting the second subset includes adjusting the screw to translate the primary magnet in a third direction and rotate the primary magnet about a second axis of rotation oriented in a fourth direction. The magnetic resonance system includes a cart. The stage assembly includes a rolling support that supports the mounting frame, and the method includes moving the mounting frame on the rolling support relative to the stage assembly and lowering the mounting frame from the stage assembly onto the cart. The primary magnet includes one of an electromagnet, a superconducting magnet, or a permanent magnet.

[0060] This specification contains many details, but these should not be understood as limitations on the scope of what can be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular examples. Certain features described herein or shown in the relevant drawings of separate embodiments may be further combined. Conversely, various features described or shown in the context of a single embodiment may further be implemented separately or in any preferred subcombination in multiple embodiments.

[0061] Similarly, although the operations are depicted in a specific order in the drawings, this should not be understood as meaning that such operations must be performed in a specific order or sequence shown, or that all illustrated operations must be performed, in order to achieve the desired result. In certain circumstances, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Furthermore, the separation of various system components in the embodiments described above should not be understood as meaning that such separation is necessary in all embodiments, and the described program components and systems can generally be integrated into a single product or packaged into multiple products.

[0062] Many examples have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made. Therefore, other examples are within the scope of the attached claims.

Claims

1. A primary magnet configured to generate a primary magnetic field, A resonator that defines the sample region in the primary magnetic field, A magnetic resonance system comprising a support assembly for supporting the primary magnet, wherein the support assembly comprises a plurality of actuators configured to adjust the sample region in the primary magnetic field by moving the primary magnet relative to the resonator, and the plurality of actuators configured to adjust the sample region in at least five spatial degrees of freedom.

2. The support assembly, A mounting frame for holding the primary magnet, The magnetic resonance system according to claim 1, further comprising a stage assembly that supports the mounting frame.

3. The aforementioned stage assembly A plate that contacts the aforementioned mounting frame, A locking clamp for fixing the mounting frame to the plate, The magnetic resonance system according to claim 2, further comprising a base for supporting the plate.

4. The magnetic resonance system according to claim 2, comprising a first subset of actuators on the stage assembly, wherein the plurality of actuators are configured to move the mounting frame relative to the resonator.

5. The magnetic resonance system according to claim 4, comprising a second subset of actuators on the mounting frame, wherein the plurality of actuators are configured to move the primary magnet relative to the resonator.

6. The first subset of the actuators is A first pin configured to move the mounting frame in a first direction, The magnetic resonance system according to claim 5, further comprising a second pin configured to move the mounting frame in a second direction.

7. The magnetic resonance system according to claim 6, wherein the first subset of actuators comprises a cam configured to rotate the mounting frame about a first axis of rotation oriented in a third direction.

8. The magnetic resonance system according to claim 7, wherein the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are perpendicular to each other.

9. The magnetic resonance system according to claim 7, wherein the second subset of the actuator comprises a screw configured to move the primary magnet in a third direction and to rotate the primary magnet about a second axis of rotation oriented in a fourth direction.

10. The magnetic resonance system according to claim 2, comprising a cart configured to move the mounting frame relative to the stage assembly, wherein the stage assembly includes a rolling support, and the rolling support supports the mounting frame when the primary magnet is placed on or removed from the stage assembly.

11. The aforementioned plurality of actuators Three linear degrees of freedom and A magnetic resonance system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, configured to independently adjust the sample region in the primary magnetic field in two rotational degrees of freedom.

12. The aforementioned primary magnet, electromagnet, Superconducting magnets, or A magnetic resonance system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising one of the permanent magnets.

13. The aforementioned plurality of actuators The position of the sample region in the three spatial degrees of freedom, A magnetic resonance system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, configured to adjust the orientation of the sample region in two spatial degrees of freedom.

14. A method for adjusting a magnetic resonance system, This includes adjusting a support assembly that supports a primary magnet, wherein the primary magnet generates a primary magnetic field within a sample region defined by the resonator, and by adjusting the support assembly, the primary magnet is moved relative to the resonator. A method wherein the support assembly comprises a plurality of actuators configured to adjust the sample region in the primary magnetic field in five degrees of freedom, and adjusting the support assembly includes adjusting at least one of the plurality of actuators.

15. The support assembly, A mounting frame for holding the primary magnet, The method according to claim 14, further comprising a stage assembly that supports the mounting frame.

16. The aforementioned stage assembly A plate that contacts the aforementioned mounting frame, A locking clamp for fixing the mounting frame to the plate, The method according to claim 15, further comprising a base for supporting the plate.

17. The method according to claim 15, wherein the plurality of actuators include a first subset of actuators on the stage assembly, and adjusting the support assembly includes adjusting the first subset of actuators to move the mounting frame relative to the resonator.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the plurality of actuators include a second subset of actuators on the mounting frame, and adjusting the support assembly includes adjusting the second subset of actuators to move the primary magnet relative to the resonator.

19. The first subset of the actuator comprises a first pin and a second pin, and the first subset of the actuator can be adjusted. Adjusting the first pin so as to move the mounting frame in a parallel direction, The method according to claim 18, further comprising adjusting the second pin so as to move the mounting frame in a second direction.

20. The first subset of the actuator includes a cam, and the adjustment of the first subset of the actuator is The method according to claim 19, comprising adjusting the cam so as to rotate the mounting frame about a first axis of rotation oriented in a third direction.

21. The method according to claim 20, wherein the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are perpendicular to each other.

22. The second subset comprises a screw, and the second subset of the actuator is adjusted. The method according to claim 20, comprising translating the primary magnet in a third direction and adjusting the screw to rotate the primary magnet about a second axis of rotation oriented in a fourth direction.

23. The magnetic resonance system comprises a cart, the stage assembly comprises a rolling support that supports the mounting frame, and the method Moving the mounting frame on the rolling support relative to the stage assembly, The method according to claim 15, further comprising lowering the mounting frame from the stage assembly onto the cart.

24. Adjusting the sample region in the primary magnetic field is Three linear degrees of freedom and The method according to any one of claims 14 to 23, comprising independently adjusting two rotational degrees of freedom.

25. The aforementioned primary magnet, electromagnet, Superconducting magnets, or The method according to any one of claims 14 to 23, comprising one of the permanent magnets.

26. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 23, wherein the primary magnet is rotated relative to the resonator by adjusting the support assembly.

27. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 23, wherein the primary magnet is moved in parallel with respect to the resonator by adjusting the support assembly.

28. Adjusting the sample region in the primary magnetic field is The position of the sample region in the three spatial degrees of freedom, and The method according to any one of claims 14 to 23, comprising adjusting the orientation of the sample region in two spatial degrees of freedom.

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