MRI Gradient Coil Hybrid Wire Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing MRI Z-gradient coils face limitations in current density, winding density, and heat extraction due to structural constraints imposed by the use of all-hollow wires, which restrict wire width and performance.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid configuration using both hollow and solid wires in adjacent or proximate arrangements, where the solid wire has a smaller cross-section than the hollow wire, allowing for customizable electromagnetic performance and efficient heat extraction without the need for coolant adapters, enabling smaller coil designs and improved performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If all-hollow wires are used in gradient coil windings to enable coolant flow, then heat extraction is improved, but wire width is restricted and winding density is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The winding structure is segmented into two distinct wire types: hollow wires for cooling and solid wires for current conduction. This segmentation allows each wire type to be optimized for its specific function, with hollow wires providing coolant channels and solid wires enabling higher current density and winding density without the structural constraints of hollow construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the previously separate functions of cooling (hollow wires) and current conduction (solid wires) into a unified hybrid winding structure. The hollow and solid wires are disposed in adjacent or proximate arrangements, combining the thermal management capability of hollow wires with the electrical performance of solid wires, thereby achieving both effective heat extraction and high winding density.
2Temperature
If hollow wires with coolant channels are used, then heat extraction is improved, but current density is limited due to structural constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The winding structure is segmented into two distinct wire types: hollow wires for cooling and solid wires for current conduction. This segmentation allows each wire type to be optimized for its specific function, with hollow wires providing coolant channels and solid wires enabling higher current density and winding density without the structural constraints of hollow construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the previously separate functions of cooling (hollow wires) and current conduction (solid wires) into a unified hybrid winding structure. The hollow and solid wires are disposed in adjacent or proximate arrangements, combining the thermal management capability of hollow wires with the electrical performance of solid wires, thereby achieving both effective heat extraction and high current density.
3Temperature
If hollow wires are used in adjacent configuration, then cooling is provided, but wire separation is restricted and coil size is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional arrangement where all wires must be hollow and adjacent to a three-dimensional hybrid structure. Solid wires can be disposed in proximate positions to hollow wires, utilizing spatial arrangement to reduce overall coil dimensions while maintaining cooling effectiveness through the hollow wire channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the structural parameter of the wires from uniformly hollow to a hybrid configuration of hollow and solid wires. This parameter change allows for more flexible spatial arrangement, enabling tighter packing and reduced coil dimensions while preserving the cooling function provided by the hollow wire components.
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 increases current density, winding density, and heat extraction capabilities, facilitating more efficient electromagnetic performance and allowing for smaller coil designs that enhance MRI system performance.
Implementation Method 1
wire having a hollow internal channel for flowing coolant to remove heat therefrom and/or from other devices within the housing
Implementation Method 2
at least one wire winding, the at least one wire winding comprising at least one of at least one hollow cross-section wire and at least one solid cross-section wire
Data Source
AI summary
A coil apparatus and methods for magnetic resonance imaging involving a wire winding, the wire winding having at least one of: a hollow cross-section wire and a solid cross-section wire, the solid cross-section wire having at least one of: a solid small cross-section wire and a solid large cross-section wire, the solid large cross-section wire having a thickness greater than that of the solid small cross-section wire, and the solid small cross-section wire disposed in one of adjacent and proximate at least one of the hollow cross-section wire and the solid large cross-section wire, whereby at least one of current density, winding density, and heat extraction are increasable.