HTS MRI Magnet Ramp-Down Control for Safe Idle States
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard MR magnets based on low-temperature superconductors cannot be easily turned off, posing safety risks due to the persistent high magnetic field, especially for quickly rampable MRI systems, which require safety measures to ensure the system is in a safe state when not in use and to manage access by personnel and patients.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a high-temperature superconductor-based magnet with an automated ramp-down system and a resettable count-down timer, combined with access control and metal detection methods, to safely manage magnetic field strength and user access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a standard low-temperature superconductor magnet is used, then the magnetic field is stable and reliable, but the magnet cannot be easily turned off and poses safety risks due to persistent high magnetic field
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the magnet system by transitioning from low-temperature superconductors to high-temperature superconductors. This material substitution enables the magnet to be quickly ramped down and turned off completely when not in use, eliminating the persistent safety hazard while maintaining operational reliability during imaging procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transforms the magnet from a static, always-on system to a dynamic system that can be quickly ramped up and down. The high-temperature superconductor magnet allows for rapid changes in magnetic field strength, enabling the system to adapt its state (on/off) based on operational needs, thereby resolving the contradiction between stability and safety
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a quickly rampable high-temperature superconductor magnet is implemented, then the magnetic field can be turned on and off on demand improving safety, but additional control systems and monitoring are required increasing system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback-based control system that continuously monitors the magnetic field state and automatically responds to safety conditions. The system receives inputs from various sensors and automatically adjusts the magnet state, reducing the need for complex manual control while maintaining safety through automated decision-making algorithms
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is designed to perform multiple functions: monitoring magnetic field strength, detecting metal objects, managing access control, and coordinating ramping operations. By consolidating these diverse functions into a single integrated control platform, the system manages complexity through multi-functionality rather than requiring separate specialized systems for each task
3Reliability
If access control based on metal detection is implemented, then safety for personnel with metal implants is improved, but additional scanning and detection systems are required increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs metal detection and safety assessment as a preliminary action before allowing access to the MRI room or initiating scanning. By detecting metal objects in advance and determining safe operating parameters beforehand, the system prevents potential hazards rather than reacting to them, simplifying the overall safety management process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines metal detection, access control, and scanning coordination into an integrated safety management system. The same control infrastructure that manages the magnet also handles metal detection results and access decisions, merging multiple safety functions into a unified system that reduces overall complexity compared to separate independent systems
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
Ensures the MRI system is in a safe state when not in use, reduces risks for personnel and patients, and allows safe access based on user profiles and metal detection, enhancing safety and usability of quickly rampable MRI systems.
Implementation Method 1
Image-forming magnetic resonance (MR) methods that utilize the interaction between magnetic fields and nuclear spins
Implementation Method 2
Novel high-temperature superconductor (HTS) materials, such as MgB2, allow construction of quickly rampable MR magnets
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods and systems for safety of magnetic resonance imaging are disclosed, in particular for improving safety of quickly rampable magnetic resonance imaging systems. The invention proposes to use a magnet based on high-temperature superconductor technology in combination with an automated ramp-down system that safely turns off the magnetic field whenever the MRI is not actively being used. In this way it can be ensured that a system which is not in use without a human operator nearby is always in a safe state.