Extendable RF Shielding Channel for MRI Bore Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) devices emit radiofrequency (RF) radiation that can interfere with and potentially damage surrounding electronic equipment, particularly in environments where patients are connected to life support systems, and existing solutions require expensive dedicated RF-shielded rooms to prevent interference.
Innovation Solution
A radiofrequency (RF) shielding channel for MRI devices, comprising at least one conductive layer that can be extended and contracted to form a RF shield, allowing the channel to be removably attached to the MRI device, thereby preventing external RF radiation from entering or exiting the device, without the need for a dedicated shielded room.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If MRI devices are deployed in a dedicated RF shielded room, then RF interference is prevented, but deployment cost and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the RF shielding function from the building infrastructure and concentrates it into a portable channel assembly that can be deployed with the MRI device. This separates the shielding function from the room structure, allowing the MRI device to be used in ordinary rooms without dedicated RF shielded infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs flexible conductive layers forming a channel assembly that can be positioned around the MRI device. These flexible conductive structures provide RF shielding without requiring rigid building infrastructure, enabling portable deployment in ordinary rooms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a portable RF shielding channel is used, then deployment flexibility and cost are improved, but shielding effectiveness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs nested conductive layers within the channel assembly, with inner and outer conductive layers positioned at different radii. This nested configuration creates multiple shielding barriers that enhance RF interference protection while maintaining the portable, flexible nature of the channel assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The channel assembly utilizes composite structures combining conductive layers with supporting frameworks and positioning elements. This composite design provides both the flexibility needed for portable deployment and the structural integrity required for effective RF shielding.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The RF shielding channel effectively prevents RF interference, allowing MRI devices to operate without the need for a dedicated RF-shielded room, thus reducing costs and enhancing operational flexibility, especially in environments with life support equipment.
Implementation Method 1
at least one conductive layer extendable in a longitudinal direction with respect to a bore of the MRI device... such that a RF shield is formed from the bore of the MRI device to the distal end of the at least one conductive layer
Data Source
AI summary
A radiofrequency (RF) shielding channel for a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device is provided. The RF shielding channel can include at least one conductive layer having a proximal end and a distal end. The RF shielding channel can include a connector to removably attach the proximal end of the at least one conductive layer to a bore of the MRI device. The at least one conductive layer can be extended in a longitudinal direction with respect to the bore of the MRI device between a first predetermined longitudinal dimension and a second predetermined longitudinal dimension, such that a RF shield is formed from the bore of the MRI device to the distal end of the at least one conductive layer. The RF shield can prevent an external RF radiation from entering the bore of the MRI device and/or an RF radiation emitted by the MRI device from exiting the bore.