Movable EMI Shield for MRI-LINAC Co-Location
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge is to minimize the time between MRI imaging and subsequent radiation treatment while ensuring that MRI and LINAC equipment can coexist in the same enclosure without electromagnetic interference (EMI) affecting image quality and patient positioning accuracy, as organs within the body shift during treatment planning.
Innovation Solution
A compact enclosure with a movable EMI shield that reversibly transects an electromagnetic frequency enclosure, allowing for rapid deployment and retraction to isolate the MRI and LINAC, enabling radiation treatment within 30-45 seconds post-imaging by establishing electrical communication between panels and using a device with jaws and cantilevered members for effective EMF shielding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If MRI and LINAC equipment are housed in the same enclosure, then patient imaging and treatment time is reduced, but electromagnetic radiation from LINAC degrades MRI image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The enclosure is divided into separate zones with movable EMI shielding panels that can be positioned to isolate the MRI scanner from the LINAC. The shielding panels create distinct electromagnetic environments for each device while allowing both to coexist in the same physical space.
Solution Approach 2:
The EMI shielding panels are movable rather than fixed, allowing dynamic reconfiguration of the electromagnetic barrier between MRI and LINAC. The panels can be moved to deploy shielding when both devices are in use and retracted when only one device is operational, adapting the electromagnetic environment to operational needs.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If EMI shielding is deployed between MRI and LINAC, then electromagnetic interference is reduced, but the complexity of the enclosure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The EMI shielding system is divided into multiple discrete panels rather than a single complex shield. Each panel can be independently moved and positioned, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining effective shielding when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The shielding panels are designed to be movable and reconfigurable, reducing the need for complex fixed shielding structures. The dynamic nature of the panels allows for simpler installation and maintenance while providing effective EMI protection when needed.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If movable EMI shield panels are used, then electromagnetic isolation is achieved, but the time to transition between imaging and treatment modes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The EMI shielding panels are designed for rapid movement and reconfiguration, allowing quick transition between shielded and unshielded states. The dynamic panels can be moved to deploy or retract shielding in a fraction of the time required for complete mode transitions, minimizing delays between imaging and treatment.
Solution Approach 2:
The shielding panels are pre-positioned and pre-configured within the enclosure, allowing for rapid deployment when needed. The preliminary arrangement of shielding components enables quick activation of EMI isolation without requiring complex assembly procedures during mode transitions.
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
Enables simultaneous use of MRI and LINAC in the same enclosure, minimizing patient movement and treatment time, while maintaining image accuracy by effectively shielding against electromagnetic radiation, thus facilitating rapid transition from imaging to treatment.
Implementation Method 1
A compact MRI/LINAC enclosure with a movable EMI shield that reversibly transects an electromagnetic frequency enclosure
Data Source
AI summary
A radio frequency shield which reversibly transects an electromagnetic frequency enclosure is provided. The shield includes first a number of panels attached to a first surface of the enclosure. The panels are adapted to move through a first arc relative to the first surface. Shield also includes a first panel from the number of panels having a first leading edge capable of transecting the first arc. The shield further includes a second number of panels attached to a second surface of the enclosure. The second set of panels is adapted to move through an arc relative to the second surface of the enclosure. Also a second panel from said second set of panels has a second leading edge capable of transecting the second arc so as to oppose the first leading edge. Finally, the shield includes a means for reversibly attaching the first leading edge to the second leading edge while simultaneously establishing electrical communication between the first and second plurality of panels.