Primary Magnet Actuation for Precise MRI Field Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic resonance systems face challenges in adjusting the location and orientation of the primary magnetic field with precision, particularly in mobile and compact setups, which affects the alignment of the homogenous region of the primary magnetic field with the drive magnetic field, limiting their versatility and applicability to various samples and environments.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of actuators that allow independent translation and rotation of the primary magnetic field in multiple spatial degrees of freedom, facilitated by a support assembly that securely holds the primary magnet and enables precise alignment with the sample region, allowing for easy access and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the primary magnetic field is made adjustable in multiple spatial degrees of freedom, then the alignment precision with the drive magnetic field is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by implementing adjustable and reconfigurable magnetic field components that can dynamically change their spatial configuration. The primary magnetic field system includes actuators that enable movement along multiple spatial degrees of freedom, allowing the homogenous region to be dynamically repositioned and reoriented to achieve precise alignment with the drive magnetic field for different sample geometries and experimental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the magnetic field system into independent, modular components. The primary magnetic field is generated by separate magnet assemblies (e.g., Halbach arrays) that can be independently positioned and oriented. This modular approach allows each component to be adjusted separately, achieving precise alignment while maintaining manageable system complexity through functional decomposition.
2Ease of operation
If the system is designed to be compact and mobile, then the ease of operation is improved, but the adjustment precision of the primary magnetic field is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by incorporating motorized actuators and adjustment mechanisms that enable precise control of the primary magnetic field position and orientation even in a compact configuration. The system can dynamically adjust field parameters through controlled movement, ensuring high alignment precision is maintained despite the mobile and space-constrained design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies mechanics substitution by replacing manual mechanical adjustment systems with electronically controlled actuators and positioning systems. This allows for precise, repeatable adjustments to be made programmatically, maintaining high adjustment precision while reducing the physical space required for manual operation and improving ease of use through automated control.
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 enables precise alignment of the primary and drive magnetic fields, enhancing the system's versatility and compatibility with diverse samples, including biological and cryogenic environments, while maintaining a compact and mobile design.
Implementation Method 1
a primary magnet configured to generate a primary magnetic field in a sample region defined by the resonator
Implementation Method 2
a resonator configured to generate a drive magnetic field that manipulates the spins in the sample
Data Source
AI summary
In a general aspect, a primary magnetic field is adjusted in a magnetic resonance system. In some aspects, a magnetic resonance system includes a primary magnet configured to generate a primary magnetic field; a resonator that defines a sample region in the primary magnetic field; and a support assembly that supports the primary magnet. The support assembly includes a plurality of actuators configured to adjust the sample region in the primary magnetic field by moving the primary magnet relative to the resonator. The plurality of actuators are configured to adjust the sample region in at least five spatial degrees of freedom (e.g., position, orientation, or both).


