Fastening device for an NMR probe having a quick-release fastener

A fastening device for releasably fastening a Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) probe to an NMR magnet with a main axis that extends in parallel with a z-direction and defines upper and lower faces as well as upper and lower ends, the fastening device comprising:

• a retention system rigidly connected to a lower face of the NMR magnet;
• a discoid insert configured to fasten the NMR probe against the retention system,
• wherein the NMR probe is pushed against a lower face of the discoid insert facing away from the retention system until an upper end of the NMR probe contacts an upper end of the retention system, and wherein a rigid mechanical connection is established between the NMR probe and the discoid insert and between the discoid insert and the retention system by rotating the discoid insert about a disc axis that extends in parallel with the z-direction;
• and
• a spring element, configured to establish a form-fitting, variable-force connection between the NMR probe and the retention system,
• wherein the NMR probe attaches to the discoid insert through a plurality of integral, rigid retaining elements that are each of an invariable fixed length,
• and wherein the spring element and the plurality of rigid retaining elements are configured geometrically such that:
• the form-fitting, variable-force connection has a mechanical backlash between 0.5 mm and 5 mm between the discoid insert and the plurality of rigid retaining elements in a first state in which the spring element is relaxed, and
• the form-fitting, variable-force connection has no mechanical backlash between the discoid insert and the plurality of rigid retaining elements in a second state in which the spring element is under mechanical tension.