Flexible RF Coil Assembly with Rotatable Modules for MRI

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing RF receiver-coil arrays face performance degradation and reduced lifespan due to repeated flexing when attempting to conform to varying patient sizes and shapes, compromising patient comfort and image quality in MRI systems.

Innovation Solution

A flexible RF coil assembly with rotatably interconnected modules and hinges allows the RF coil modules to rotate between unflexed and flexed positions, minimizing flex stresses and maintaining coil alignment, while a housing supports overlapping coils to protect the circuitry.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If RF receiver-coil arrays are made light and flexible to conform to patient shapes, then patient comfort and positioning are improved, but repeated flexing alters coil performance and shortens working life

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconformability to patient shapesVSAvoidcoil performance stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The RF coil array is divided into multiple individual coil elements that can independently conform to patient contours. Each coil element is separated but connected through flexible circuitry, allowing the array to adapt to various patient shapes while maintaining individual coil integrity and performance stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs flexible printed circuit boards (FPC) and thin flexible substrates to mount the RF coil elements. These flexible carriers allow the coil array to bend and conform to patient body surfaces while protecting the rigid circuitry through flexible routing, thus maintaining both conformability and performance reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

2Ease of operation

If RF receiver-coil arrays are made light and flexible to maintain patient comfort, then ease of positioning is improved, but repeated flexing shortens working life

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepositioning easeVSAvoidworking life

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

Flexible printed circuit boards and thin flexible substrates enable the coil array to be easily positioned on various patient body surfaces while protecting the rigid circuitry through flexible routing, thus maintaining both positioning ease and component durability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates flexible connectors and strain relief features in advance to cushion against the stresses of repeated positioning and flexing. These pre-designed flexible elements absorb mechanical stress before it reaches the sensitive coil and circuitry components, extending the working life while maintaining ease of positioning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS20080100294A1Flexible RF coil assembly and method of making same

Publication Date: 2008.05.01 GE PRECISION HEALTHCARE LLC

AI summary

An RF coil assembly includes a plurality of coil supports rotatably interconnected to each other. Each coil support is configured to rotate with respect to at least one adjoining coil support. A plurality of RF coils is connected to each coil support.