Interleaved Figure-Eight Gradient Coil MRI
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Solution Overview
Problem
The variability in gradient fields produced by discrete gradient coils in MRI systems complicates signal localization, making it difficult to achieve precise imaging.
Innovation Solution
The use of interleaved gradient coils, specifically formed in a figure-eight configuration, which are arranged in a cylindrical layout with overlapping and underlying sections to ensure consistent and controlled magnetic field generation, thereby stabilizing the gradient fields.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If discrete gradient coils are used to produce time-varying magnetic gradient fields, then the imaging function can be performed, but the gradient fields vary making signal localization difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple gradient coil functions into a single interleaved coil structure that generates multiple gradient fields simultaneously. The figure-eight configuration with interleaved windings allows one coil to produce both Gx and Gy gradients, merging what would traditionally require separate coils into a unified structure with consistent performance across all gradient directions.
Solution Approach 2:
The coil is divided into distinct interleaved sections (first and second sections) with specific winding patterns that correspond to different gradient directions. This segmentation allows each section to contribute to specific gradient components while maintaining overall field consistency, with the first section primarily contributing to one gradient direction and the second section to another.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple discrete gradient coils are used for different gradient directions, then complete spatial encoding is achieved, but field variability increases
Solution Approach 1:
The interleaved gradient coil is designed to perform multiple gradient functions simultaneously. A single coil structure with figure-eight windings generates both x-direction and y-direction gradient fields, making the device universal for multiple spatial encoding tasks. This multi-functionality is achieved through the interleaved winding pattern where different sections of the same coil produce different gradient components.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple gradient coil functions are merged into one unified interleaved structure. The patent integrates what would traditionally be separate Gx and Gy coils into a single multi-functional unit, where the interleaved windings allow simultaneous generation of multiple gradient fields with consistent stability characteristics across all directions.
3Measurement precision
If traditional gradient coil configurations are used, then the structure is simple, but signal localization precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The gradient coil adopts a figure-eight geometric configuration with curved interleaved windings instead of traditional linear or simple circular arrangements. This curved, symmetric figure-eight pattern creates more uniform magnetic field distributions and improves gradient linearity across the imaging volume, directly enhancing signal localization precision through its geometric properties.
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 configuration enhances the precision and consistency of magnetic field gradients, improving signal localization and image quality by maintaining a stable field across the imaging volume.
Implementation Method 1
a gradient coil for a magnetic resonance imaging system may include four self-similar coils, each coil having a plurality of turns formed generally in a figure-eight
Implementation Method 2
The coils may be interleaved in a generally cylindrical configuration with a first section of each coil overlying a corresponding underlying section of a preceding coil
Data Source
AI summary
Gradient coils for generating gradient magnetic fields in a magnetic resonance imaging system are provided. In one embodiment, a gradient coil for a magnetic resonance imaging system may include a plurality of turns formed generally in a figure-eight. The figure-eight may form a first section configured to overly a section of a first adjacent coil, a second section configured to underly another section of the first adjacent coil, a third section configured to overly a section of a second adjacent coil, and a fourth section configured to underly another section of the second adjacent coil.