NMR Reference Database Analysis for Faster Chemical Identification

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing NMR data analysis methods require significant user expertise, are time-consuming, and prone to human error, with no standard for verifying model quality, leading to inconsistencies and delays in chemical analysis.

Innovation Solution

A system and method utilizing an analysis control unit that compares NMR data with a reference database containing standard data, including QMSA models, to automatically identify chemical compounds, impurities, and quantify concentrations, reducing human intervention and errors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual NMR data analysis is performed by experts, then accurate chemical identification and quantification can be achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires significant user expertise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvechemical identification accuracyVSAvoidanalysis time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system pre-calculates and stores theoretical NMR spectra and parameters (chemical shifts, coupling constants, integrals) for known chemical compounds in a database before actual analysis is needed. When analyzing a sample, the system compares the experimental spectrum against these pre-computed reference data, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual calculations and expert interpretation during the actual analysis process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates digital copies of reference NMR spectra and chemical structure data stored in a database. These digital replicas can be automatically retrieved and compared against experimental data without requiring physical reference samples or expert knowledge of each compound's spectral characteristics, enabling automated analysis while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Adaptability or versatility

If different users analyze the same NMR data, then various interpretations can be obtained based on user expertise, but the results become inconsistent and non-standardized

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterpretation flexibilityVSAvoidresult consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements an automated feedback mechanism where the NMR spectrum is systematically compared against theoretical spectra in the database, and the best matching compounds are identified based on quantitative parameters (chemical shifts, coupling constants, integrals). This objective feedback process replaces subjective user interpretation, ensuring consistent and reproducible results across different analyses while maintaining the ability to identify multiple possible matches with their respective confidence levels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system transforms the qualitative expert interpretation process into quantitative parameter comparison. By converting spectral features into measurable parameters (chemical shifts, coupling constants, integral ratios) and comparing these against stored reference values, the system achieves standardized, reproducible results that are independent of user expertise while maintaining scientific rigor.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If physical standard materials are shipped to consumers for comparison, then accurate reference data can be obtained, but shipping delays and manual handling can degrade material quality

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereference data accuracyVSAvoidshipping and handling time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of shipping physical standard materials, the system creates and stores digital copies of reference NMR spectral data and theoretical parameters in a database. These digital references can be instantly retrieved and compared against experimental samples without any physical shipping, handling, or storage requirements, eliminating delays and preventing degradation of reference materials while maintaining analytical accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces the mechanical process of physical material shipping and handling with an information-based digital data transmission system. Reference spectra and chemical parameters are stored electronically and transmitted digitally, substituting the physical logistics chain with an information technology solution that eliminates shipping time, handling errors, and material degradation risks.

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

4Ease of operation

If human experts interpret standard methods, then flexible analysis can be performed, but human error can occur during testing or analysis

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanalysis flexibilityVSAvoiderror rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service analysis by automatically comparing experimental NMR spectra against the database of reference data and theoretical parameters. The system independently identifies matching compounds, calculates quantification results, and generates analysis reports without requiring human intervention for each measurement. This automation maintains analytical flexibility through programmable parameters while eliminating human errors in data interpretation and documentation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces the human cognitive process of interpreting NMR spectra with an automated computational algorithm. The computer systematically compares spectral parameters against reference data using predefined criteria, substituting human judgment with machine-based objective analysis that eliminates fatigue, distraction, and subjective bias while maintaining the flexibility to handle complex spectral patterns through programmable logic.

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

Data Source

PatentUS12571867B2Nuclear magnetic resonance analysis systems and methods
Publication Date: 2026.03.10 UNITED STATES PHARMACOPEIAL CONVENTION
  • US12571867B2 patent drawing
  • US12571867B2 patent drawing
  • US12571867B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method include an analysis control unit configured to receive nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) data of a sample. A reference database is in communication with the analysis control unit. The reference database stores standard data including information regarding a plurality of standards for chemical compounds, and may also store information regarding quantum mechanical spectral analysis (QMSA) model data and test method data. The analysis control unit is further configured to compare the NMR data with the standard data to determine if the NMR data is associated with one of the plurality of standards, and identify one or more differences between the NMR data and the one of the plurality of standards.