Additive Manufactured MRI Cooling Manifold Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manifold assemblies for cooling gradient coil assemblies in MRI systems are costly, occupy large space, and are prone to mechanical failure due to numerous connections and complex fabrication requirements, making traditional fabrication techniques insufficient.
Innovation Solution
The use of additively manufactured manifolds with complex geometries optimized for maximum flow and minimal space, integrated with flexible rubber hoses, reduces the number of connections and braze joints, lowering the risk of leaks and mechanical failure, and enables custom precise geometry for better cooling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional manifold assemblies are used for cooling gradient coil assemblies, then cooling function is provided, but the assemblies are costly, occupy large space, and are prone to mechanical failure due to numerous connections and complex fabrication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate manifold components into a single integrated manifold assembly. The manifold includes a body with multiple ports and internal fluid passages that combine cooling functions for multiple gradient coils into one unified structure, eliminating the need for numerous separate connections and reducing mechanical failure risk from multiple connection points
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold assembly is designed as a multi-functional component that provides cooling for multiple gradient coils simultaneously through its body with multiple ports and internal passages. This universal design reduces the overall number of separate cooling assemblies needed in the MRI system
2Temperature
If traditional manifold assemblies are used, then cooling is provided, but they occupy large footprint and are costly
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold assembly is designed to be positioned within or adjacent to the gradient coil assembly, with the cooling channels directly coupled to the gradient coils. This nested arrangement allows the manifold to occupy minimal additional space while maintaining effective cooling contact with the gradient coils
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold utilizes three-dimensional internal fluid passages within its body to provide comprehensive cooling coverage. The internal passages are arranged to distribute coolant efficiently to multiple gradient coils without requiring proportional increases in the manifold's external footprint
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional fabrication techniques are used for manifolds, then manufacturing is possible, but the assemblies are costly and subject to higher risk of mechanical failure
Solution Approach 1:
The design integrates multiple cooling functions into a single manufacturable manifold body with internal passages. This unified structure reduces the number of separate parts that need to be fabricated, assembled, and brazed together, thereby reducing both manufacturing complexity and the risk of assembly-related mechanical failures
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 results in a more efficient, cost-effective, and reliable cooling system with reduced risk of mechanical failure and improved cooling performance, while saving critical space and allowing for easier serviceability.
Implementation Method 1
Different types of cooling (e.g., fluidic cooling) are typically utilized to minimize heating of the gradient coil assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A manifold for a gradient coil cooling manifold assembly of an MRI system includes a first main fluid passage defined by a first wall. The manifold also includes a first set of secondary fluid passages coupled to the first main fluid passage and defined by respective walls, wherein the first wall of the first main fluid passage and the respective walls of the first set of secondary fluid passages form barb connectors configured to couple to respective hoses. The manifold is formed as a single integral piece.