Magnetic Resonance Amplifier Switching for CW and Pulsed Modes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing magnetic resonance systems lack efficient and automated switching between continuous-wave and pulsed modes of operation, leading to inefficiencies and increased noise interference, particularly in cryogenic environments.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of electromagnetic circuits with fast-switching devices and digital control signals allows seamless transitions between continuous-wave and pulsed modes, reducing noise interference and enhancing power efficiency, while enabling real-time monitoring and automated operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual switching between continuous-wave and pulsed modes is used, then operation flexibility is maintained, but switching time increases and productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching speedVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical switching with automated electronic control. A computer system generates control signals that automatically switch the resonator between continuous-wave and pulsed modes, eliminating manual intervention and significantly reducing switching time while maintaining operational flexibility through software control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements self-service automation where the control system automatically manages mode transitions without external manual input. The computer system monitors system state and autonomously switches operating modes based on experimental requirements, reducing both switching time and operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Loss of time

If fast-switching devices are implemented, then deadtime is reduced and productivity improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovedeadtimeVSAvoidcircuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic switching capabilities where the resonator can rapidly transition between different operating states. Fast-switching devices enable the system to adapt its configuration in real-time, minimizing deadtime between mode transitions while the computer-controlled automation manages the complexity of coordinating these dynamic changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The resonator system is designed with multi-functionality, capable of operating in both continuous-wave and pulsed modes using the same hardware platform. This universal design reduces the need for separate specialized equipment for each mode, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity while achieving fast switching between functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Measurement precision

If automated control signals are used, then operation accuracy improves, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the computer system monitors system performance and adjusts control signals accordingly. This feedback loop ensures high measurement accuracy by compensating for variations and maintaining optimal operating conditions, while the automated nature of the feedback reduces the need for manual calibration and intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically adjusts operational parameters such as frequency, power level, and pulse duration through computer-generated control signals. These precise parameter changes enable accurate measurements while the automation of parameter management reduces the complexity burden that would otherwise require manual tuning of each parameter.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20250383416A1Operating Circuitry in a Magnetic Resonance System
Publication Date: 2025.12.18 QUANTUM VALLEY INVESTMENT FUND
  • US20250383416A1 patent drawing
  • US20250383416A1 patent drawing
  • US20250383416A1 patent drawing

AI summary

In a general aspect, a magnetic resonance system is operated. In some examples, an amplifier circuit for a magnetic resonance system includes first and second switch devices, a high-power amplifier (HPA) device, and a power combiner device. The first switch device includes an input port and two output ports. The HPA device includes an HPA input port and an HPA output port. The HPA input port is coupled to a first output port of the first switch device. The second switch device includes input and output ports. The power combiner device includes two input ports and an output port. A first input port of the power combiner device is coupled to the output port of the second switch device. A second input port of the power combiner device is coupled to the second output port of the first switch device along a path that bypasses the HPA device.