Quick-Disconnect MRI Coil Interface for Custom RF Coils
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems face challenges in connecting custom RF coils due to the lack of a detachable interface, necessitating the replacement of entire units when different-sized RF coils are needed, which complicates customization and increases maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
A coil interface device with a quick disconnect connector and preamplifier allows for detachable connection of RF coils to the MRI system, featuring a switching circuit and printed circuit boards to integrate components like transmitter and receiver channels, enabling easy access and compatibility with various RF coils.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If RF coils are manufactured as complete units integrated with a fixed interface, then the connection is stable and reliable, but customization becomes difficult and the entire interface must be replaced when different-sized RF coils are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the RF coil system into separable components: the RF coil element and the interface device are disconnected and designed as independent modules. The interface device includes a connector that can detachably connect to the RF coil, allowing the RF coil to be customized or replaced without replacing the entire integrated unit. This segmentation enables different RF coil sizes and configurations to be used with the same interface device.
2Reliability
If the entire interface is replaced when different-sized RF coils are needed, then connection reliability is maintained, but maintenance costs increase and portability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the RF coil from the interface device through a detachable connector, the system allows the RF coil to be replaced independently without affecting the interface. This reduces maintenance costs since only the RF coil needs to be replaced, not the entire interface assembly, while maintaining connection reliability through the designed connector interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The detachable connector design allows the interface device to be recovered and reused when RF coils are replaced. Instead of discarding the entire interface when changing RF coil sizes, the interface remains in the system and can continue to support different RF coil configurations, reducing waste and maintenance costs.
3Measurement precision
If custom RF coils are designed to suit specific needs, then imaging performance is improved, but connecting them to the MRI system becomes difficult without a detachable interface
Solution Approach 1:
The interface device is designed with a universal connector that can accommodate different RF coil configurations and sizes. The connector includes standardized electrical contacts and mechanical coupling features that work with various RF coil designs, allowing custom RF coils to be easily connected to the MRI system without requiring specialized interface designs for each coil type.
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system is provided. The MRI system includes a receiver channel configured to receive radio frequency signals, and a coil interface device configured to connect the MRI system with a radio frequency (RF) coil. The coil interface device includes a preamplifier, a quick disconnect connector, and a receiver channel interface One end of the quick disconnect connector is connected to the preamplifier and another end is configured to be connected to the RF coil. The quick disconnect connector is configured to be detachably connected to the RF coil. The receiver channel interface is configured to be connected to the receiver channel.