MRI Gradient Coil Interconnect Reinforcement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing interconnections between inner and outer gradient coils in MRI systems are prone to mechanical stress and breakage due to opposing electromagnetic forces during operation, leading to reliability issues and performance degradation.
Innovation Solution
A gradient coil interconnect comprising a wire assembly with a reinforcement material around it, providing electrical coupling between the inner and outer gradient coils, which includes a plurality of conductors and a non-metallic reinforcement material for added stiffness and insulation, designed to withstand operational stresses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If solid rigid conducting material interconnections are used between inner and outer gradient coils, then electrical connection is provided, but the interconnections break due to mechanical stress from opposing electromagnetic forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces solid rigid conducting material with a flexible cable assembly that includes conductors surrounded by reinforcement material and insulation. This flexible structure can withstand mechanical stress and opposing electromagnetic forces without breaking, while maintaining electrical connection between inner and outer gradient coils.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable assembly uses composite construction with conductors, reinforcement material (such as fiberglass or Kevlar), and insulation layers. This composite structure provides both electrical conductivity and mechanical strength to resist the forces generated during gradient coil operation.
2Ease of operation
If solid rigid conducting material is used for interconnections, then electrical coupling is achieved, but mechanical stress causes breakage during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible cable assembly with reinforcement material can accommodate mechanical stress and movement without breaking, improving ease of operation and durability while maintaining reliable electrical connection throughout the operational lifetime of the MRI system.
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 solution enhances the reliability and performance of MRI systems by providing durable interconnections that can withstand the mechanical stresses caused by electromagnetic forces, reducing the likelihood of interconnection failures during operation.
Implementation Method 1
a wire assembly comprising a plurality of conductors and having a first end electrically coupled to the outer gradient coil assembly and a second end electrically coupled to the inner gradient coil
Implementation Method 2
During operation of the gradient coil assembly, the inner and outer gradient coils are subjected to opposing electromagnetic forces that cause mechanical stress on the inner and outer gradient coil assemblies as well as the interconnections between the inner and outer gradient coils
Data Source
AI summary
A gradient coil apparatus for a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system includes an inner gradient coil assembly comprising at least one inner gradient coil and an outer gradient coil assembly comprising at least one outer gradient coil. At least one gradient coil interconnect is coupled to the inner gradient coil and the outer gradient coil. The gradient coil interconnect includes a wire assembly comprising a plurality of conductors. The wire assembly has a first end electrically coupled to the outer gradient coil assembly and a second end electrically coupled to the inner gradient coil. The gradient coil interconnect also includes a reinforcement material disposed around a portion of the wire assembly.