Optical Reference Signal Distribution for MR Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for distributing reference signals in electro-technical systems, such as magnetic resonance systems, face limitations including high power requirements, signal degradation, crosstalk, and restricted frequency due to the use of coaxial cables, which become significant issues when dealing with multiple system components at greater distances.
Innovation Solution
The method involves converting electrical reference signals into optical signals for distribution via optical fibers, which are then converted back into electrical signals at individual components, providing electrical isolation and allowing higher frequency transmission without the need for powerful generators or close proximity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If electrical reference signals are distributed over coaxial cables to multiple system components, then the reference signal can be supplied to components, but significant output power is required and signal quality deteriorates due to reflections and crosstalk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electrical signal transmission system (coaxial cables, electrical splitters) with an optical signal transmission system (optical fibers, optical-to-electrical converters). This substitution eliminates electrical reflections and crosstalk by using entirely different physical media and transmission mechanisms, thereby improving signal quality while maintaining the ability to supply multiple components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical fibers as an intermediary medium between the reference signal generator and the system components. Instead of directly distributing electrical signals through coaxial cables, the system converts electrical signals to optical signals for transmission through optical fibers, then converts back to electrical signals at the components. This intermediary optical transmission layer eliminates electrical interference and improves signal quality.
2Quantity of substance
If electrical reference signals are distributed over coaxial cables, then components can receive reference signals, but the maximum permissible frequency is restricted to below 100 MHz
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electrical transmission medium (coaxial cables) with an optical transmission medium (optical fibers). Optical fibers can transmit signals at much higher frequencies without the skin effect and capacitive loading that limit coaxial cables to below 100 MHz. This substitution enables the system to supply multiple components with reference signals at frequencies well above 100 MHz, improving measurement precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the distance between the splitter and system components is increased, then components can be arranged more flexibly, but signal degradation increases due to cable length
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes electrical signal transmission over coaxial cables with optical signal transmission over optical fibers. Optical fibers have significantly lower signal attenuation and do not suffer from the same frequency-dependent losses as coaxial cables. This allows the system to increase the distance between the reference signal generator and components while maintaining signal quality, thereby improving adaptability and versatility in component arrangement.
4Quantity of substance
If a powerful reference signal generator is used to supply multiple components, then more components can be supplied, but the complexity and cost of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the requirement for a powerful electrical reference signal generator with an optical signal transmission system. Optical fibers can transmit signals over long distances with minimal power loss compared to coaxial cables, which would require increasingly powerful generators as more components are added. The optical system allows a single, less powerful generator to supply many components without requiring proportional increases in generator power, reducing system complexity.
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 crosstalk, increases signal quality, and enables higher frequency reference signals to be transmitted over longer distances, effectively addressing the limitations of coaxial cable distribution methods.
Implementation Method 1
a first signal conversion facility (6) coupled to the reference signal generator (5) for generating a number of optical reference signals (RO) on the basis of the electrical output reference signal (RE1)
Implementation Method 2
an optical fiber system (7) for transmitting an optical reference signal (RO) to the individual system components (2)
Implementation Method 3
a second signal conversion facility (8) for generating an electrical input reference signal (RE2) for the relevant system component (2) on the basis of the received optical reference signal (RO)
Data Source
AI summary
A method for supplying a plurality of system components of a system with a common reference signal is described, in which an electrical output reference signal is created by a reference signal generator and a number of optical reference signals are generated using the electrical output reference signal. The optical reference signals are transmitted to the individual system components, and an electrical input reference signal for the corresponding system component is generated at or in the system component using the transferred optical reference signal. A corresponding reference signaling arrangement, a reference signal transmission facility, an electro-technical system having a number of system components and a system component for the system are also provided.