Multiplexer Time Division Signal Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
In magnetic resonance apparatuses, the existing cabling system for transferring signals from local coils to a receiver is cumbersome, requiring significant space and time for connection and disconnection, and is costly due to the need for flexible cables and sheath wave barriers.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a multiplexer using a time multiplexing method to combine amplified signals from multiple local coils into a single optical transfer path, reducing the need for coaxial cables and their associated barriers, and allowing for efficient signal transfer with lower space and cost requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional coaxial cables with sheath wave barriers are used to transfer signals from local coils to receiver, then signal transfer is achieved, but space requirement and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple signal transfer paths from different local coils are merged into a single optical fiber using time-division multiplexing. The multiplexer combines signals from multiple reception branches onto one optical transfer path, eliminating the need for separate coaxial cables for each coil and significantly reducing space requirements in the patient bed and central region.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical cable system (coaxial cables with sheath wave barriers) with an optical fiber-based system. Signals are transferred from local coils through amplifiers and a multiplexer onto an optical fiber, which is more space-efficient and cost-effective than traditional electrical cabling while maintaining signal transfer capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple local coil cables with plug connections are used, then each local coil can be independently connected, but connection time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple individual coil connections are merged into a single integrated optical fiber system. Instead of connecting separate cables to each local coil, the system uses a multiplexer that combines signals from all coils onto one optical transfer path, eliminating repeated plug connections and reducing operational time.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical fiber serves as a universal transfer medium that can carry signals from multiple local coils simultaneously through time-division multiplexing. This single optical conductor replaces multiple specialized coaxial cables, providing a universal solution that reduces connection complexity and time.
3Reliability
If flexible cables capable of withstanding mechanical stress are used in mobile patient bed, then cable durability is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces flexible electrical cables with an optical fiber system. Optical fibers are inherently more resistant to mechanical stress and can be easily routed through the mobile patient bed without requiring expensive reinforced cable constructions. The optical fiber provides sufficient durability for mobile use at lower cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiplexer acts as an intermediary device that converts electrical signals from local coils into optical signals for transmission through the optical fiber. This intermediary conversion allows the use of simple, cost-effective optical fiber instead of complex, expensive flexible electrical cables, while maintaining signal transfer reliability.
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 solution significantly reduces cabling complexity and costs while maintaining signal quality, enabling efficient transfer of multiple signals through a single optical conductor, thereby addressing the space and cost issues associated with traditional cabling systems.
Implementation Method 1
the amplified magnetic resonance signals of the reception branches are combined by the multiplexer into a resulting signal with the aid of a time multiplexing method
Implementation Method 2
A transfer path is connected on the one hand with an output of the multiplexer and on the other hand with a receiver, such that the resulting signal is transferred from the multiplexer to the receiver via the transfer path
Data Source
AI summary
An arrangement to transmit magnetic resonance signals has at least two reception branches. Each reception branch contains a single antenna of a local coil as well as an amplifier connected with the single antenna, such that an amplified magnetic resonance signal is formed from a magnetic resonance signal that is acquired via the single antenna. In a multiplexer, each input is connected with a respective reception branch, such that the amplified magnetic resonance signals of the reception branch are combined by the multiplexer into a resulting signal using a time multiplexing method. A transmission path is connected on one side with an output of the multiplexer and on the other side with a receiver, such that the resulting signal is transmitted from the multiplexer to the receiver via the transmission path.