Flexible Local Coil Array for MRI Without External Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing local coil arrays for magnetic resonance applications require external fixation with belts or other fastening elements to conform to the patient's shape, which can be uncomfortable and limit flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A local coil array with a mechanical structure comprising base elements and connecting elements that allow limited translational and rotational movement, enabling the array to mold itself to the patient without external fixation, by using flexible and lightweight designs that distribute weight evenly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If external fixation with belts or fastening elements is used to conform the local coil array to the patient's shape, then the stability and fit of the device is improved, but the comfort and flexibility of the patient is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the mechanical structure inherently adaptable through movable connections between base elements. The connecting elements allow translational and rotational movement, enabling the structure to dynamically adjust to the patient's body shape without requiring external fixation belts, thus maintaining stability while improving comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by designing the mechanical structure to automatically mold itself to the patient's body through the movable base elements and connecting elements. The structure self-adjusts without requiring external fastening elements or manual intervention, eliminating the need for belts while maintaining proper fit and stability.
2Strength
If a rigid mechanical structure with foam is used to provide stability and protection, then the protective function and structural integrity is improved, but the flexibility and adaptability to different patient body shapes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the mechanical structure into multiple movable base elements connected by connecting elements. This segmentation allows each base element to independently adjust its position and orientation, providing both structural strength and flexibility to adapt to different patient body shapes without requiring a completely rigid construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by incorporating movable connections between base elements that allow translational and rotational movement. This dynamic design enables the mechanical structure to adapt its shape while maintaining sufficient strength and stability, eliminating the need for rigid foam constructions.
3Reliability
If base elements are placed close together to maintain electrical clearances, then the safety and signal quality is improved, but the air circulation and comfort for the patient is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different regions of the mechanical structure to have different spacing characteristics. The movable base elements can adjust their positions to maintain adequate electrical clearances where needed while creating larger gaps in other regions to improve air circulation and patient comfort, optimizing both safety and comfort locally.
Data Source
AI summary
A local coil array for magnetic resonance applications has a mechanical structure in which a plurality of local coils of the local coil array are arranged. The mechanical structure has base elements and connecting elements. In each case, two of the base elements are connected to one other via at least one connecting element such that, to a limited extent, a translational and/or rotational movement of the base elements relative to one other is possible. The connection of the base elements to the connecting elements is configured such that the connecting elements either do not oppose the movement of the base elements relative to one another or only employ such a low counterforce that when the mechanical structure is placed on a patient from above, the base elements come to rest on the patient while moving relative to one another. At least some of the base elements contain at least a part of one of the local coils of the local coil array.