MRI Gradient Power Supply Mode Switching for Idle Power Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
MRI apparatuses face high power consumption even when not in use due to the constant operation of gradient power supply systems, particularly the high-speed switch circuits, leading to significant energy wastage.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a mode switching mechanism that puts circuit systems into a shutdown state when not in use and activates them only when an imaging operation is about to start, using triggers such as table position changes and operational states to control the power supply and cooling systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the gradient power supply and cooling system are kept in constant operation to ensure imaging readiness, then imaging speed and responsiveness are improved, but power consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The gradient power supply and cooling system are switched between active and standby states periodically based on imaging requirements. The system enters standby mode during non-imaging periods and activates before imaging starts, achieving both energy savings and rapid responsiveness through controlled periodic operation cycles
2Power
If the high-speed switch circuit is used to increase output power capability, then imaging performance is improved, but power consumption in idle state remains high
Solution Approach 1:
The gradient power supply operates dynamically with variable output capability rather than fixed high-power mode. The system adjusts its operational state between full power, reduced power, and standby modes based on actual imaging needs, allowing the high-speed switch circuit to maintain responsiveness while reducing idle power consumption
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 reduces power consumption by several kilowatts during non-imaging periods, optimizing energy usage without affecting imaging performance or throughput.
Implementation Method 1
a static magnetic field power supply 9 to supply power to the static magnetic field generating device 4 to generate a static magnetic field in the imaging area
Implementation Method 2
a gradient power supply 10 to supply power to the gradient coil 6 to generate gradient magnetic fields in the imaging area
Implementation Method 3
excites nuclear spin of an object set in a static magnetic field with a RF (radio frequency) signal having the Larmor frequency magnetically
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic resonance imaging (MR) apparatus includes a mode switching part and an imaging system. The mode switching part is configured to put a circuit system consuming power into a shutdown state when a first trigger has been detected and to put the circuit system back into a startup state when a second trigger has been detected. The first trigger shows that MR imaging does not start for a certain period. The second trigger shows that MR imaging starts. The imaging system is configured to perform MR imaging by using the circuit system after being set to the startup state.