Sample Holder Structure Patents (Class 324/321)
  • Publication number: 20140139220
    Abstract: A high-pressure magic angle spinning (MAS) rotor is detailed that includes a high-pressure sample cell that maintains high pressures exceeding 150 bar. The sample cell design minimizes pressure losses due to penetration over an extended period of time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2014
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Applicant: BATTELLE MEMORIAL INSTITUTE
    Inventors: David W. Hoyt, Jesse A. Sears, Romulus V.F. Turcu, Kevin M. Rosso, Jian Zhi Hu
  • Publication number: 20140132268
    Abstract: In order to provide a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus capable of maximizing the effect of an automatic positioning function without increasing the load on an operator even in imaging of an examination part having a plurality of examination sections, when setting an imaging position of an examination part having a plurality of examination sections, automatic positioning processing for automatically detecting all examination sections of the examination part on a scanogram image acquired in advance is performed first. A stack is displayed at a position, which is detected by this automatic positioning processing, on the scanogram image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2012
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: HITACHI MEDICAL CORPORAITON
    Inventors: Hisako Nagao, Hiroyuki Itagaki
  • Publication number: 20140125337
    Abstract: A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) apparatus includes a housing which has a bore to which a magnetic field for use in an MRI scan is applied, a moving table on which an inspection target may be placed and that enters the bore of the housing, a projector which projects an image onto an inner wall that forms the bore of the housing, and a controller which controls the projection unit and transmits a video signal to the projector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2013
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Myung-kyu LEE
  • Publication number: 20140125340
    Abstract: An NMR MAS probe head (1) has an MAS stator (7) with a base bearing (8) and a front bearing (75) for receiving a substance to be measured at a measurement position within an MAS rotor. The front bearing has an opening for inserting the MAS rotor into the space between the base bearing and the front bearing. The opening can be closed by a closing device that, in a loading state, opens and, in a measuring state, closes the opening by means of a movement that is transverse with respect to an axis (a) through the centers of the base bearing and the opening of the front bearing of the MAS stator. This enables automated loading and unloading of the MAS rotor in the space between the base bearing and the front bearing inside the MAS stator in a simple way.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2014
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Inventors: Andreas Hunkeler, Benno Knott, David Osen
  • Patent number: 8717027
    Abstract: Apparatuses, methods, and other embodiments associated with determining organ viability are described. According to one embodiment, an apparatus includes logic configured to apply nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) energy to a kidney positioned in a hypothermic pulsative perfusion (HPP) apparatus. The NMR energy is produced according to an MRS 31P specific pulse sequence. The HPP apparatus has an integrated RF coil. The HPP may also have an integrated magnet. The RF coil is positioned and oriented to facilitate optimizing 31P MRS of the kidney. The apparatus also includes logic configured to receive spectrum data from the kidney. The spectrum data is produced in response to applying the NMR energy to the kidney. The apparatus also includes logic configured to provide objective, quantitative kidney viability data (e.g., PME/Pi, ATP/ADP) from the spectrum data. More generally, MRI/MRS compatible HPP apparatuses are configured to interact with dedicated NMR spectroscopy apparatuses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Fujita, John L. Patrick, Ronald B. Richard
  • Publication number: 20140117988
    Abstract: A hyperpolarization and multiple irradiation probe head, suitable for use in connection with magnetic resonance techniques (DNP-NMR, photo-DNP-NMR, ENDOR-EPR, MRI, DNP-MRI), comprising a RF transducer for generating and detecting a RF signal, wherein said RF transducer has a conducting element (2) allowing, together with at least one fully or partially connected grid polarizer made of conducting grid elements (1) which are reciprocally spaced so as the grid is at least partially transparent to a given microwave beam (3), controlled RF current paths and a substantially uniform RF magnetic field inside the RF transducer, wherein the grid polarizer (1) and the conducting element (2) forming the RF transducer are shaped and oriented to conform to said microwave beam phase fronts, said grid polarizer and said conducting element surrounding a sample (8), which is apt to be irradiated also by said microwaves (3); the probe head being also suited for a simultaneous irradiation of the sample with THz, FIR, IR, visible
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: COSIGLIO NAZIONALE DELLE RICHERCHE
    Inventors: Giuseppe Annino, Alessandro Macor, Emile De Rijk, Stefano Alberti
  • Patent number: 8710836
    Abstract: NMR technology disclosed herein, such as an NMR apparatus or an NMR method, for example, may be useful for purposes described herein, such as determining presence or absence of magnetic resonance from a sample, for example. Methods pertaining to such NMR technology include methods of designing or constructing NMR apparatus, methods of using NMR apparatus, methods of employing data obtained from NMR apparatus, and/or the like. Various apparatus and methods for detection of magnetic resonance in sample material are disclosed herein. Additionally, various apparatus and methods for usefully employing magnetic resonance data are disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: nanoMR, Inc.
    Inventors: Natalie Louise Adolphi, Andrew Frederick McDowell
  • Publication number: 20140103926
    Abstract: The present invention provides an MRI-based hazard screening system for detecting contaminating particles within or on the surface of an object, the system characterized by a. a sampling environment adapted for at least partially confining said object; said sampling environment is in fluid communication with at least one inlet and at least one fluid outlet; b. a fluid streamer for streaming a fluid, throughout said at least one inlet, towards said sampling environment where said fluid effectively interfaces said object; and further throughout said at least one outlet; c. an MRI device in fluid communication with said at least one outlet, adapted for providing an image of said particles streamed by said fluid thereby screening the presence of said particles within or on the surface of said object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventor: Uri RAPOPORT
  • Publication number: 20140097844
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, an MRI apparatus (20A to 20C) includes a supporting unit (80a to 80c), a first radio communication unit (200), a second radio communication unit (300A to 300C) and a power supply unit (320a, 320b, 550, 572, 574 and 610). The supporting unit supports a table inside a gantry (21). The first radio communication unit acquires an MR signal detected by an RF coil device (100A and 100B), and wirelessly transmits the MR signal. The second radio communication unit receives the MR signal wirelessly transmitted from the first radio communication unit. At least a part of the power supply unit is disposed inside a bed device (32) or inside the supporting unit. The power supply unit supplies consumed power of the RF coil device via the first radio communication unit, by wirelessly supplying electric power to the first radio communication unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicants: TOSHIBA MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORPORATION, KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA
    Inventor: Sadanori TOMIHA
  • Publication number: 20140097843
    Abstract: There is disclosed an NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) spinner having a turbine structure and a rotor whose spinning rate can be increased. A vortical channel (44) is formed around the rotor (12). The vortical channel (44) consists of a chamber (66) and a nozzle array (68) mounted inside the chamber (66). The chamber (66) has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an upstream to downstream direction. The cross-sectional area of each nozzle also decreases in an upstream to downstream direction. Gas is introduced into the chamber (66), creating a rotating flow (76, 78, 80) in the chamber (66). Plural inwardly swirling streams are created from the inside of the rotating flow. The inwardly swirling streams are ejected from the exits of the nozzles. This results in jet streams, which are blown against the impeller of the rotor, spinning the rotor at high speed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: JEOL Resonance Inc.
    Inventor: Yuki Endo
  • Publication number: 20140091800
    Abstract: Nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer for examination of a sample under pressure has a coolant vessel containing a radio-frequency coil cooled by coolant in the vessel while located within the magnetic field of the spectrometer. A pressurizable sample holder comprises a nonmagnetic pressure retaining tube formed of electrically insulating matrix material containing electrically insulating reinforcing filaments. The spectrometer is configured to accommodate this sample holder with the axis of the pressure retaining tube transverse to the magnetic field, and the radiofrequency coil at the exterior of the pressure retaining tube. Cooling of the coil improves the signal to noise ratio and offsets the low coil filling factor which is a consequence of placing the coil outside a non-metallic pressure retaining tube. End pieces at each end of the tube are connected together and contain longitudinal pressure stress.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: EDMUND J. FORDHAM
  • Patent number: 8686729
    Abstract: A monitoring cell, used to perform a measurement in an NMR spectrometer of a reaction fluid produced by a reaction vessel, has a body having inlet and outlet transport coaxial capillaries for transporting the reaction fluid between the body and the reaction vessel. Cooling lines are also positioned coaxially with the transport capillaries to transport cooling liquid between the body and the reaction vessel. The cell further has a hollow sample probe for insertion into the NMR spectrometer and a coupler section that removably connects the sample probe to the body so that the inlet transport capillary extends through the body into the interior of the sample probe and the outlet transport capillary is sealed to the sample probe to allow reaction fluid that enters the sample probe via the inlet transport capillary to exit the sample probe via the outlet transport capillary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Bruker Biospin Corporation
    Inventors: Brian Marquez, Michael Fey, Kimberly L. Colson, Robert Krull, Eckhard Bez, Don Piroli, Werner E. Maas
  • Publication number: 20140084928
    Abstract: An NMR measuring configuration has a temperature control device for a sample vial (1). The temperature control device has a temperature sensor with supply wires which are both surrounded by a sensor tube (15). The sensor tube (15) is connected to a measurement space via a sensor flow inlet (26) in such a way that a partial flow of a temperature-control fluid flows as a temperature-control flow (16) into a free space (17) between the temperature sensor and the inner wall of the sensor tube along the supply wires and flows out of the sensor tube via a sensor flow outlet (18) at the opposite end of the sensor tube. This minimizes both the temperature penetration factor and the difference between the sensor and sample temperatures (?Tp).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Inventors: Philipp Gisler, Dirk Wilhelm, Christoph Pfenninger
  • Publication number: 20140070807
    Abstract: A magnetic resonance unit with a housing unit and a patient accommodation area for the accommodation and/or holding of at least one part region of a patient is provided. The patient accommodation area is surrounded at least partially by the housing unit, a first and a second movement sensor unit for acquiring a first and a second item of movement information of a movement of the patient. The first movement sensor unit exhibits a first field of view for the acquisition of a first part region of the patient and/or of the patient accommodation area, and the second movement sensor unit exhibits a second field of view for the acquisition of a second part region of the patient and/or of the patient accommodation area, which is formed differently in relation to the first part region of the patient and/or of the patient accommodation area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Inventor: Stephan Biber
  • Patent number: 8669764
    Abstract: A microfluidic cell comprising: a microfluidic channel (32) for receiving a fluid sample; and a sensor (30) located adjacent the microfluidic channel; wherein the sensor comprises a diamond material comprising one or more quantum spin defects (34). In use, a fluid sample is loaded into the microfluidic cell and the fluid is analyzed via magnetic resonance using the quantum spin defects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Element Six Limited
    Inventors: Daniel James Twitchen, Matthew Lee Markham
  • Publication number: 20140035584
    Abstract: A microfluidic cell comprising: a microfluidic channel (32) for receiving a fluid sample; and a sensor (30) located adjacent the microfluidic channel; wherein the sensor comprises a diamond material comprising one or more quantum spin defects (34). In use, a fluid sample is loaded into the microfluidic cell and the fluid is analysed via magnetic resonance using the quantum spin defects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventors: Daniel James Twitchen, Matthew Lee Markham
  • Patent number: 8643371
    Abstract: The invention provides a low-field nuclear magnetic resonance system for measuring a magnetic resonance signal of an object. The low-field nuclear magnetic resonance system includes a pre-magnetization module, a uniform magnetic field coil module, a pulse and receiving coil module, a filter amplifier module, a signal acquisition module and a processing module. The pre-magnetization module is used to establish a pre-magnetization field in the object to increase magnetization of the object. The uniform magnetic field coil module is used to change a resonance frequency and background magnetic field intensity of the object during nuclear magnetic resonance measurement by regulating a magnetic field of the coil. The processing module further includes a programming object for controlling timing processing and signal analysis of the measurement process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Magqu Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Shieh-Yueh Yang, Hong-Chang Yang, Herng-Er Horng, Shu-Hsien Liao
  • Publication number: 20140028317
    Abstract: A local radio frequency (RF) coil assembly (A) defining a pediatric patient receiving region (12) to be mounted to a patient support table (B) of an MRI scanner (E). The local RF coil assembly (A) includes a rigid coil body (16,18) operatively connected to an adjustable coil part (20) along a hinge axis (26). A carrier (F) is configured to receive a pediatric patient (C) and be positioned into engagement with the local RF coil assembly (A). An interlock assembly (51) holds the adjustable coil part (20) in a selected position (50) when the carrier (F) interacts with the adjustable coil part (20). At least one bearing (34, 36) is configured to pivot and bias the adjustable coil part (20) relative to the carrier (F) and gravity bias the interlock assembly and the carrier (F) into an interlocking engagement. The adjustable coil part (20) is gravity biased to the open position (28) when the carrier (F) is removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventor: Olli Tapio Friman
  • Patent number: 8630693
    Abstract: In a magnetic resonance device having a PET unit for acquiring positron emission tomography data and a gradient coil, the PET unit includes a carrier tube on which at least one PET detector is arranged. In at least one embodiment, the carrier tube is arranged inside the gradient coil and is displaceably mounted in such a way that access to the PET detector is made possible by its displacement. This allows easy access to the PET detector during maintenance activities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: James Corbeil, Stefan Stocker
  • Patent number: 8624599
    Abstract: An analysis system (1) for the analysis of a sample, comprises a gel permeation chromatograph (14) that is coupled with a nuclear magnetic resonance (=NMR) spectrometer. The chromatograph (14) has a gel permeation chromatography (=GPC) separating column system (6a) that is filled with porous particles (21). The NMR spectrometer is configured as a low-field NMR spectrometer (8) with a permanent magnet system (9) for generating a B0 field of the NMR spectrometer. The low-field NMR spectrometer (8) comprises a shim system (10) with which homogeneity of the B0 field of at least 0.5 ppm can be achieved in a right circular cylindrical sample volume (27) having a diameter of at least 5 mm and a length of at least 15 mm. The system permits the quantitative and qualitative chemical analysis of samples containing substances of different molecular size using a less expensive apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignees: Bruker BioSpin GmbH, PSS Polymer Standards Service GmbH, Karlsruher Institut fuer Technologie
    Inventors: Andreas Kamlowski, Thorsten Hofe, Markus Cudaj, Manfred Wilhelm, Gisela Guthausen
  • Publication number: 20130342203
    Abstract: A spectroscopic sample analysis apparatus includes an actively controlled heat exchanger in serial fluid communication with a spectroscopic analyzer, and a controller communicably coupled to the heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is disposed downstream of a fluid handler in the form of a stream selection unit (SSU), a solvent/standard recirculation unit (SRU), and/or an auto-sampling unit (ASU). The SSU selectively couples individual stream inputs to an output port. The SRU includes a solvent/standard reservoir, and selectively couples output ports to the heat exchanger, and returns the solvent/standard sample to the reservoirs. The ASU includes a sample reservoir having a sample transfer pathway with a plurality of orifices disposed at spaced locations along a length thereof. The controller selectively actuates the fluid handler, enabling sample to flow therethrough to the heat exchanger, and actuates the heat exchanger to maintain the sample at a predetermined temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventors: W. Marcus Trygstad, Russell Jackson, Bruce A. Keen
  • Publication number: 20130342209
    Abstract: A precision high-speed shuttle device for transporting samples between different positions of a superconducting magnet with different magnetic field strength is provided. The sample equilibrated at the center of the magnet, where the magnetic field is the highest and homogeneous, is shuttled to a higher position above, where the fringe field is lower, for a defined period of time and shuttled back to the center for detection. By shuttling the sample to different positions in the magnet in different experiments one can obtain a field-dependent profile of particular physical parameters. The position and timing of the sample are precisely under the experimental controlled. In this way various magnetic field-dependent nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments can be conducted in a single high-field NMR spectrometer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Applicant: Academia Sinica
    Inventor: Academia Sinica
  • Publication number: 20130335081
    Abstract: A pressurizable holder for a sample to be examined by NMR, comprises a pressure retaining nonmagnetic tube surrounding a radio-frequency coil which in turn surrounds a space for the sample. The pressure retaining tube is formed of (i) nonmetallic electrically insulating material such as a ceramic or (ii) nonmetallic electrically insulating matrix material reinforced with electrically insulating filaments such as glass fiber, or (iii) non-metallic electrically insulating matrix material reinforced with electrically conductive filaments configured so that conductivity is anisotropic. There is good coil filling factor without constraint on wall thickness of the pressure retaining tube. Avoidance of isotropically conductive material inhibits eddy currents when an NMR spectrometer's magnetic field gradient coils are switched on and off. The tube resists hoop stress from internal pressure. Longitudinal stress is resisted by structure connecting end pieces at the ends of the pressure retaining tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Inventor: EDMUND J. FORDHAM
  • Patent number: 8591835
    Abstract: One or more embodiments of the invention are directed to sample tubes comprising a cylindrical elongate tube having a gripping section with at least one discontinuity extending radially about the outside surface of the elongate tube. Methods of making sample tubes and their use in sample handlers are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: Gregory B. Norell
  • Publication number: 20130307543
    Abstract: An NMR sample tube is offered which can be spun at high speed stably. The NMR sample tube is adapted for use in solid-state NMR spectroscopy and includes a tubular member, spacers, and cover bodies. The spacers are disposed inside the tubular member. Each spacer has first and second surfaces located on opposite sides. The first surfaces of the spacers define a space filled up with a sample. The tubular member has openings which are closed off by the cover bodies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: JEOL Resonance Inc.
    Inventor: Yuki Endo
  • Patent number: 8575934
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus includes a static magnetic-field generating unit, a gradient magnetic-field generating unit, a plurality of metal shim plates in a plate shape, and a shim holding unit. The metal shim plates adjust uniformity of the static magnetic field. The shim holding unit holds the metal shim plates in a layered state. Each of the metal shim plates includes a convex having a certain angle at a certain position, and the metal shim plates are layered such that the convex of each one metal shim plate comes into contact with a back of the bent convex of another metal shim plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Masateru Iwasa, Yoshitomo Sakakura, Kazuto Nogami, Hidekazu Tanaka
  • Patent number: 8552725
    Abstract: An aspect of the present invention relates to system and method for substantially obstructing magnetic flux. One aspect of the present invention provides an apparatus for substantially obstructing at least one magnetic flux path between an ambient space and a protected volume. The apparatus includes an inner shield, substantially enclosing the protected volume. The inner shield has at least one inner shield aperture extending therethrough to allow external access to the protected volume. An outer shield substantially encloses the inner shield. The outer shield has at least one outer shield aperture extending therethrough to allow internal access from the ambient space. The apparatus is configured to impede magnetic flux between at least one inner shield aperture and at least one outer shield aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Northrop Grumman Guidance & Electronics Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Henry C. Abbink, Edward Kanegsberg
  • Patent number: 8547092
    Abstract: A “proton precession magnetometer sensor capable of all-direction measurement” according to the present invention, in which frequency of current induced in a coil by flowing and then breaking current in the coil is measured to calculate strength of an external magnetic field, is characterized in that the coil is a toroid coil. Alternatively, the coil may be achieved by two solenoid coils connected perpendicularly, or N solenoid coils connected in the form of a polygon, where N is an integer of 3 or more. The proton precession magnetometer sensor is capable of measuring the external magnetic field in all directions since there is no dead band, and is convenient since there is no need of adjusting the sensor to a certain direction when measuring magnetic force. Further, the present invention will bring accumulation of key original technology applicable to various cases in practice through development of improved impedance matching and power consumption optimization in future practice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Korea Institute of Geoscience & Mineral Resources
    Inventors: Hyun Key Jung, Mu Taek Lim, Jeongsul Son, Hyong Rea Rim
  • Publication number: 20130234713
    Abstract: A magnetic resonance device is proposed. The device has a magnet unit having a cylindrical radio frequency coil unit, a cylindrical accommodation area for accommodating a patient, and a housing unit surrounding the magnet unit with at least one housing shell unit. The radio frequency coil unit cylindrically surrounds the accommodation area. The housing shell unit is disposed between the accommodation area and the radio frequency coil unit. The at least one housing shell unit is constituted at least partially by a flexible spring/mass unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2012
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Inventors: BERND MACIEJEWSKI, Annette Stein
  • Publication number: 20130207655
    Abstract: When a portion of a structure enclosing a local coil is inserted in a homogeneity region of a basic magnetic field of a magnetic resonance system, the local coil is operable to receive magnetic resonance signals originating from a specific detection zone for the local coil arrangement. At least one conductor is arranged in the structure. Field lines of a compensation magnetic field generated by current encircling the conductor form a compensation magnetic field angle with the basic magnetic field in an edge area of the detection zone. Return conductors complete an electric circuit containing the conductor and extend in the direction of the basic magnetic field and/or are arranged such that field lines of an interfering magnetic field counteracting the compensation magnetic field encircle the respective return conductor and form an interfering magnetic field angle with the basic magnetic field in the edge area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Stephan Biber
  • Publication number: 20130207656
    Abstract: An NMR probe has a sample tube insertion port for introducing and withdrawing the sample tube into and from the probe, a sample tube support providing support of the sample tube during NMR measurements, a tubular sample tube passage connecting together the sample tube insertion port and the sample tube support and capable of transporting the sample tube between them, and a gas stream generator for producing a gas stream in the sample tube passage to move the sample tube between the sample tube insertion port and the tube support. The gas stream generator is mounted at an intermediate (non-end) position in the sample tube passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2013
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: JEOL Resonance Inc.
    Inventor: JEOL Resonance Inc.
  • Patent number: 8497683
    Abstract: A spectroscopic sample analysis apparatus includes an actively controlled heat exchanger in serial fluid communication with a spectroscopic analyzer, and a controller communicably coupled to the heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is disposed downstream of a fluid handler in the form of a stream selection unit (SSU), a solvent/standard recirculation unit (SRU), and/or an auto-sampling unit (ASU). The SSU selectively couples individual stream inputs to an output port. The SRU includes a solvent/standard reservoir, and selectively couples output ports to the heat exchanger, and returns the solvent/standard sample to the reservoirs. The ASU includes a sample reservoir having a sample transfer pathway with a plurality of orifices disposed at spaced locations along a length thereof. The controller selectively actuates the fluid handler, enabling sample to flow therethrough to the heat exchanger, and actuates the heat exchanger to maintain the sample at a predetermined temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Invensys Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: W. Marcus Trygstad, Russell Jackson, Bruce A. Keen
  • Publication number: 20130176029
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a bed apparatus for a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus includes a table, a table driving mechanism, a bed supporting part, and a cable guide. The table provides a connection port for a reception coil of magnetic resonance signals. The table driving mechanism is configured to shift the table. The bed supporting part is configured to support the table. The cable guide is configured to protect a signal cable between the table and the bed supporting part and to bend a portion of the signal cable along with a move of the table. The signal cable is connected to the connection port. The portion of the signal cable corresponds to a position of the table.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2013
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Applicants: TOSHIBA MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORPORATION, KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA
    Inventor: Takuhiro OOSAWA
  • Publication number: 20130176028
    Abstract: A system for NMR assessing a sample or a series of samples in turn which comprises means for applying a static magnetic field in a first direction through the sample, pre-polarising means for first applying a magnetic field in substantially the same direction to the sample, means for applying an alternating excitation magnetic field in a second different direction through the sample, means for sensing energy emitted by the sample in response to the excitation magnetic field, and means arranged to provide an indication of an assessment of the sample based on the energy emitted by the sample in response to the excitation magnetic field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2011
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Inventors: Michael John Disney Mallett, Gianni Mario Ferrante
  • Publication number: 20130169276
    Abstract: A biological detector includes a conduit for receiving a fluid containing one or more magnetic nanoparticle-labeled, biological objects to be detected and one or more permanent magnets or electromagnet for establishing a low magnetic field in which the conduit is disposed. A microcoil is disposed proximate the conduit for energization at a frequency that permits detection by NMR spectroscopy of whether the one or more magnetically-labeled biological objects is/are present in the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: STC.UNM
    Inventor: STC.UNM
  • Patent number: 8471561
    Abstract: A securing part and an unscrewing safeguard system of a gradient coil plug for an MRT that can be fixed to a gradient coil bushing include a gradient coil plug, a gradient coil bushing, a cap nut with a keyed surface and, to secure the gradient coil plug to the gradient coil bushing, a multi-tooth ring fixed to the plug so that the ring cannot rotate, and a securing part with a multi-tooth ring engagement contour that can be brought into engagement with the multi-tooth ring, and with a keyed surface engagement contour that can be brought into mating with the keyed surface of the ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Johann Schuster, Stefan Stocker
  • Patent number: 8471559
    Abstract: A downhole micro MR analyzer for use in a wellbore, having a micro sample tube, a micro RF coil in close proximity to the micro sample tube, and one or more magnets disposed about the micro sample tube is disclosed. The micro MR analyzer can be used for nuclear magnetic resonance or electron spin resonance experiments to ascertain formation properties and chemical compositions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Reza Taherian, Krishnamurthy Ganesan, Robert Freedman
  • Patent number: 8461841
    Abstract: The present invention discloses to a magnetic resonance device consisting of magnets housed within a cage, a thermal regulating system (TRS) adapted to thermoregulate the magnets to room temperature T±?T. TRS comprising a (i) preset array of one or more opened-bore channels provided within the cage and/or within the magnets; and, (ii) means for forcing fluid throughout the array of opened-bore channels, such that temperature T of the magnets is regulated to a preset range of ?T.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Aspect Imaging Ltd.
    Inventors: Uri Rapoport, Ehud Katznelson
  • Publication number: 20130127464
    Abstract: A biological detector includes a conduit for receiving a fluid containing one or more magnetic nanoparticle-labeled, biological objects to be detected and one or more permanent magnets or electromagnet for establishing a low magnetic field in which the conduit is disposed. A microcoil is disposed proximate the conduit for energization at a frequency that permits detection by NMR spectroscopy of whether the one or more magnetically-labeled biological objects is/are present in the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicants: Sandia Corporation, STC.UNM
    Inventor: STC.UNM
  • Patent number: 8436616
    Abstract: A solid-state NMR sample tube and method of using same which can be spun stably and at high speed while suppressing its bending resonance. A solid sample to be investigated by solid-state NMR spectroscopy can be sealed in the sample tube. The sample tube includes a hollow cylinder having opposite ends. At least one of the ends is open. The sample tube has a length L, an outside diameter D, and an inside diameter d which satisfy a given relationship disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Jeol Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuki Endo, Katsuya Hioka, Kazuo Yamauchi
  • Patent number: 8427161
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for generating hyperpolarized materials are disclosed. In one embodiment, a flexible fluid path is provided for use in a polarizer system. In a further embodiment, a polarizer system is provided with an electromechanical assembly for controlling the movement of a fluid path, when present, within a sample path of the polarizer system. In a further embodiment, a polarizer system is provided having a sample path entry point at a convenient height for use by a user standing on the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Lawrence Elwood Murphy, Emil Markov Georgiev, Erik Paul Kemper, Ryan Jerome Ramos
  • Publication number: 20130088232
    Abstract: A high-resolution solid-state NMR spectrometer which can measure a disklike sample. The spectrometer includes: a stator having an air bearing disposed within the static magnetic field, the rotor being disposed in the stator; and an engaging mechanism mounted in a one-end portion of the rotor and detachably holding a sample holder that holds the disklike sample.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2011
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Applicants: KYOTO UNIVERSITY, JEOL RESONANCE INC.
    Inventors: Munehiro Inukai, Yasuto Noda, Kazuyuki Takeda, Kiyonori Takegoshi, Takashi Mizuno
  • Publication number: 20130057283
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a top plate for a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus includes a placing plate and a supporting part. The placing plate is configured to place an object. The supporting part is provided to the placing plate at a position higher than a position of the placing plate. Further, a frame for a top plate set of a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to an embodiment includes a first supporting part and a second supporting part. The first supporting part is configured to support a top plate at a first supporting position. The second supporting part is configured to support the top plate at a second supporting position higher than the first supporting position. Further, a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to an embodiment includes the top plate, a bed and an imaging unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicants: TOSHIBA MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORPORATION, KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA
    Inventors: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
  • Publication number: 20130033265
    Abstract: Imaging signals from one or more surface coils are directed outwardly through a rear end portion of an imaging bore of an imaging machine, such as a magnetic resonance imaging machine (MRI). Initial processing of the imaging signals can be carried out within the imaging bore and transmitted through a pair of releasable connectors to external imaging processing equipment. By routing the surface coil imaging signals through the open rear end of an imaging bore, wires and other signal processing components need not be squeezed through the relatively limited space available around the front portion of an imaging bore. Fluid passages can be provided through the pair of releasable connectors for the passage of heating fluids, cooling fluids, and pressurized gasses including anesthesia gasses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Inventor: Chris Chiodo
  • Patent number: 8368402
    Abstract: This invention relates generally to NMR systems for in vivo detection of analytes. More particularly, in certain embodiments, the invention relates to systems in which superparamagnetic nanoparticles are exposed to a magnetic field and radio frequency (RF) excitation at or near the Larmor frequency, such that the aggregation and/or disaggregation of the nanoparticles caused by the presence and/or concentration of a given analyte in a biological fluid is detected in vivo from a monitored RF echo response.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: T2 Biosystems, Inc.
    Inventors: W. David Lee, David A. Berry
  • Patent number: 8362778
    Abstract: A shim arrangement for increasing the homogeneity of a magnetic field within a homogeneous field region, comprising: shim channels extending within a volume between a magnetic field generator and the homogeneous field region; at least one piece of shim material located within each shim channel; an arrangement for moving each shim piece along the corresponding shim channel; and retaining means for retaining each shim piece in position. Shimming is performed by moving shim pieces within the shim channels, with the magnet at field. No shim pieces are added to, or removed from, the shim channels during the shimming step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Plc
    Inventor: Robert Slade
  • Patent number: 8358133
    Abstract: Efficient mounting of a module to a whole-body coil of a magnetic resonance apparatus is enabled by a circuit board with conductive contact regions located at least in the area of an edge of the circuit board, with which contact regions contacts of an electronic module for a magnetic resonance apparatus are connected in a conductive manner. The contact regions of the circuit board are configured for electrical contact with the whole-body coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Alexander Granzer, Razvan Lazar, Wolfgang Renz
  • Patent number: 8339135
    Abstract: A biological detector includes a conduit for receiving a fluid containing one or more magnetic nanoparticle-labeled, biological objects to be detected and one or more permanent magnets or electromagnet for establishing a low magnetic field in which the conduit is disposed. A microcoil is disposed proximate the conduit for energization at a frequency that permits detection by NMR spectroscopy of whether the one or more magnetically-labeled biological objects is/are present in the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: STC.UNM
    Inventors: Laurel Sillerud, Todd M. Alam, Andrew F. McDowell
  • Patent number: 8334690
    Abstract: A magnetometer and method of use is presently disclosed. The magnetometer has at least one sensor void of extraneous metallic components, electrical contacts and electrically conducting pathways. The sensor contains an active material vapor, such as an alkali vapor, that alters at least one measurable parameter of light passing therethrough, when in a magnetic field. The sensor may have an absorptive material configured to absorb laser light and thereby activate or heat the active material vapor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of Commerce, The National Institute of Standards and Technology
    Inventors: John Kitching, Svenja Knappe, Jan Preusser, Vladislav Gerginov
  • Patent number: 8334698
    Abstract: A sample holding device, adapted for holding a sample, like a rodent or an MR phantom sample in a magnet bore of a magnetic resonance tomography (MRT) device, comprises a sample carrier being adapted for an arrangement in the bore of the MRT device, wherein the sample carrier comprises a carrier platform for accommodating the sample and at least one clamping part with radial locking pieces being adapted for fixing the sample carrier in a hollow enclosure structure, wherein the at least one clamping part is connected with the carrier platform. Furthermore, an MRT device and a method of MRT imaging of a sample are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignees: Max-Planck-Gesellschaft zur Forderung der Wissenschaften e.V., Biomedizinische NMR Forschungs GmbH
    Inventors: Roland Tammer, Susann Boretius, Thomas Michaelis, Andreas Pucher-Diehl