NMR Probe Head Remote Tuning With a Movable Single-Actuator Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current NMR probe heads are bulky and complex due to the need for multiple fixed actuators and space-consuming gearings, limiting the number of components that can be controlled and increasing control electronics complexity, especially in space-constrained environments like standard bore probes.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical apparatus with a single main actuator and three actuating elements on a carrier stage allows for precise positioning and movement of adjustment rods, enabling all necessary movements with minimal components, including rotational and translational motions, and a latching mechanism for engagement, reducing the need for complex coupling mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixed actuators and gearings are used to control components in NMR probe heads, then the number of controllable components increases, but the device complexity and space consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
A single actuator is designed to perform multiple functions by controlling different adjustment rods through a switching mechanism. The actuator can be positioned to engage with various receiving elements on different adjustment rods, enabling one actuator to replace multiple dedicated actuators and control numerous components throughout the probe head.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical apparatus transitions from fixed actuators to a dynamic positioning system where a single actuator can move to different locations. The carrier stage enables the actuator to dynamically reposition itself along the longitudinal axis and radially, allowing engagement with different adjustment rods as needed during probe operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixed actuators and gearings are installed in NMR probe heads, then more components can be controlled, but the probe head volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple separate actuators and their associated gearings are merged into a single actuator system. The carrier stage consolidates the positioning functionality that would otherwise require multiple fixed actuators distributed throughout the probe head, significantly reducing the overall volume required for the mechanical apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator is extracted from fixed positions and placed on a mobile carrier stage. This extraction allows the actuator to serve multiple locations without being permanently installed at each position, eliminating the need for bulky gearings at multiple points and reducing the probe head volume.
3Ease of operation
If dedicated actuators are positioned at fixed locations, then mechanical coupling is simplified, but the ability to access all locations in the probe head is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator system is made dynamic through the carrier stage, which enables movement along the longitudinal axis and radial positioning. This dynamic capability allows the single actuator to access any location within the probe head where adjustment rods are present, overcoming the limitations of fixed-position actuators while maintaining simple mechanical coupling through the engagement system.
4Device complexity
If one actuator controls multiple adjustment rods, then the number of actuators is reduced, but the control precision and reliability may decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier stage acts as an intermediary between the single actuator and multiple adjustment rods. It provides precise positioning and stable engagement through the inserting element that couples to receiving elements on adjustment rods. This intermediary mechanism ensures reliable force transmission and precise control for each adjustment rod engaged, maintaining control reliability despite using fewer actuators.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 2c
AI summary
An NMR probe head (10) containing a mechanical apparatus (11) designed and adapted for remotely controlling components of the probe head during operation of an NMR spectrometer comprising a plurality of adjustment rods to mechanically adjust mechanical or electric parts in the NMR probe head requiring manipulation, the adjustment rods being arranged in a Z-direction and mechanically coupled to an actuator via an engagement system, and containing a control system (15) to control the movement of the actuator, is characterized in that the mechanical apparatus comprises an actuator platform to which the actuator is attached, the platform being movably connected to a carrier stage which is equipped with three actuating elements arranged thereon and enabling the carrier stage to move the actuator platform into any required spatial position relative to the adjustment rods; and that the engagement system comprises receiving elements arranged on the lower ends of each of the adjustment rods and an inserting element arranged on the top end of the actuator, wherein the inserting element is designed and adapted for fitting in anyone of the receiving elements to mechanically couple the corresponding adjustment rod with the actuator to provide a transmission of rotational and/or translational movement from the actuator to the adjustment rod. This system of low level of complexity in a space-saving manner drives all adjustment rods inside an NMR probe head with as few drive units as possible thereby enabling automatic adjusting, tuning, matching and activation.