Company Filing History:
4 out of 5 
2 out of 235 
1 out of 777 
Years Active: 1990-2009
Title: The Innovative Contributions of Alan R. Rath
Introduction
Alan R. Rath is a prominent inventor based in Fremont, CA, holding a total of 7 patents that reflect his significant contributions in the fields of NMR and MRI technology. His innovations focus on advancements in radio frequency coils, playing a critical role in enhancing medical imaging techniques.
Latest Patents
Among his latest patents, the "Switchable Birdcage Coil" stands out as a remarkable invention. This device operates as both a transmitter coil and a separate RF surface coil, functioning effectively in NMR and MRI apparatus. It incorporates a unique mechanism to prevent energy absorption by coupling to the receiver coil or from the RF field created by precessing nuclear spins. By switching one or more reactive elements of the birdcage coil to a high impedance state, it forms a parallel resonant high impedance circuit tuned to resonate at the NMR frequency.
Another notable patent is the "Detunable Coil Assembly and Method of Detuning RF Coil for MRI". This assembly includes a main coil that resonates at a specified frequency and a switchable detuning coil that becomes inductively coupled to the main coil when activated. This innovative mechanism allows for the detuning of the main coil from its resonance frequency while maintaining electrical insulation between the components. Significantly, this detuning coil can achieve multiple detunings of various specified resonance frequencies simultaneously.
Career Highlights
Alan R. Rath has made a mark in the industry through his tenure at well-regarded companies such as Spectroscopy Imaging Systems and Varian, Inc. His work in these organizations has been instrumental in advancing the technologies associated with nuclear magnetic resonance and medical imaging.
Collaborations
Rath has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Robert S. Codrington and Wai Ha Wong. Together, they have contributed to the development of innovative solutions that enhance the functionality and effectiveness of medical imaging equipment.
Conclusion
Alan R. Rath's inventive spirit and dedication to innovation have yielded significant advancements in NMR and MRI technology. With his impressive portfolio of patents, he continues to influence the landscape of medical imaging, ensuring that the field benefits from his insights and expertise. His work exemplifies the importance of creativity and collaboration in driving progress in scientific research and technology.