Integrated Manifold Assembly for PET Detector Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cooling systems for PET and PET/CT systems are complex and costly due to the need for separate coolant intake and return manifolds with numerous components, increasing manufacturing time and expense.
Innovation Solution
A manifold assembly for PET systems formed by a plurality of unitary sections using additive manufacturing, where intake and return manifolds are integrated with nozzles and other components, reducing the number of separate parts and enabling varied shapes and sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional separate intake and return manifolds with multiple components are used, then the cooling function is achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the intake manifold and return manifold into a single integrated manifold structure. The intake passage and return passage are formed as separate channels within the same manifold body, eliminating the need for separate intake and return manifold components. This merging reduces the number of parts while maintaining the cooling function.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated manifold serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the intake manifold and return manifold, provides structural support, and facilitates coolant distribution. The single manifold component performs the roles of what would traditionally require multiple separate components.
2Reliability
If conventional separate manifolds with multiple components are used, then the cooling function is achieved, but the manufacturing time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the intake and return manifolds into a single integrated component, the manufacturing process is simplified. Instead of manufacturing and assembling multiple separate parts, the integrated manifold can be produced as a single piece or pre-assembled unit, significantly reducing manufacturing time and assembly operations.
3Reliability
If conventional separate manifolds are used, then the cooling function is achieved, but the fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics are suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated manifold allows for optimized local flow characteristics in different regions. The intake passage and return passage can be designed with specific cross-sectional areas, velocities, and flow distribution patterns tailored to the local cooling requirements of different detector regions, enhancing overall heat transfer efficiency.
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
This approach decreases manufacturing time and cost while enhancing fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics, allowing for more efficient cooling of PET detectors.
Implementation Method 1
The cooling system includes a manifold assembly... formed by a plurality of unitary sections... resulting in a decreased number of separate components
Implementation Method 2
enhancing fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics, allowing for more efficient cooling of PET detectors
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided for cooling systems for imaging systems. In one embodiment, a manifold assembly for an imaging system comprises: an intake manifold and a return manifold formed by a plurality of unitary sections, the intake manifold and return manifold positioned adjacent to each other and separated by a shared wall; and a plurality of nozzles, with each nozzle of the plurality of nozzles formed by a corresponding section of the plurality of unitary sections. In this way, an assembly difficulty, expense, and/or manufacturing time of the manifold assembly may be decreased.