NMR RF Probe Coil with Orthogonal Magnetic Fields
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional NMR RF probe coils face challenges in achieving high sensitivity due to distance from the sample, material resistance, and interference between coils, limiting their ability to operate efficiently at multiple frequencies with a strong and homogeneous magnetic field.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates two RF coils on a single dielectric substrate with orthogonal magnetic fields, reducing electric fields and minimizing coil interaction, allowing for simultaneous operation at two frequencies with improved sensitivity and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple RF coils are placed close to the sample to improve sensitivity, then sensitivity increases, but undesirable interaction between coils occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies orthogonal orientation of magnetic fields in different spatial dimensions. The first RF coil generates a magnetic field along one axis while the second RF coil generates a magnetic field perpendicular to the first, utilizing dimensional separation to minimize coil interaction while maintaining close proximity to the sample for high sensitivity
2Device complexity
If a single RF coil is used to operate at multiple frequencies, then device complexity is reduced, but magnetic field homogeneity and sensitivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple RF coils with different resonant frequencies into a single probe assembly. The first RF coil is tuned to a first resonant frequency and the second RF coil is tuned to a second resonant frequency, allowing simultaneous multi-frequency operation while maintaining optimized magnetic field homogeneity for each frequency through dedicated coil design
Solution Approach 2:
The coils are oriented orthogonally with magnetic fields perpendicular to each other, utilizing spatial dimensionality to enable independent frequency operation without mutual interference, thus maintaining magnetic field homogeneity at multiple frequencies
3Adaptability or versatility
If moving parts are included for tuning and coupling adjustment, then adaptability is improved, but reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical tuning and coupling adjustment mechanisms with fixed, predetermined coil designs. The RF coils are configured with specific geometries and orientations that inherently provide the desired tuning and coupling characteristics, eliminating moving parts and improving reliability while maintaining adaptability through fixed multi-frequency operation
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration enhances sensitivity and reduces the complexity and cost of NMR probes, enabling larger sample sizes and more reliable results by eliminating moving parts and optimizing magnetic field homogeneity.
Implementation Method 1
When RF current flows through the windings of the NMR probe coil, an RF magnetic field is produced perpendicular to the direction of the current
Implementation Method 2
The first and second RF coils are each resonant with an operating frequency that is the same or different
Implementation Method 3
The magnetic fields of the first and second RF coils are orthogonal to each other at their respective operating frequencies in the sample region
Data Source
AI summary
NMR probe coils designed to operate at two different frequencies, producing a strong and homogenous magnetic field at both the frequencies. This single coil, placed close to the sample, provides a method to optimize the NMR detection sensitivity of two different channels. In addition, the present invention describes a coil that generates a magnetic field that is parallel to the substrate of the coil as opposed to perpendicular as seen in the prior art. The present invention isolates coils from each other even when placed in close proximity to each other. A method to reduce the presence of electric field within the sample region is also considered. Further, the invention describes a method to adjust the radio-frequency tuning and coupling of the NMR probe coils.