Radial MRI Gradient Coil Connector System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for connecting current-carrying cables to gradient coils in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems are prone to unintended detachment due to mechanical vibrations and electromagnetic forces, and require complex bending of thick cables, leading to reliability and installation challenges.
Innovation Solution
A connection system featuring a radially-facing connector potted into the gradient coil assembly with a cable block secured to the magnet above, allowing a coaxial cable to connect directly without bending, using a plug and socket configuration with a redundant rotatable boot for secure and reliable electrical contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a high-current coaxial connection with plug and mating connector is used, then the cable can be detachably connected to the gradient coil, but the connection may result in unintended detachment due to mechanical vibrations and electromagnetic forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the connection geometry from an axial arrangement to a radial arrangement. The cable block is positioned radially outward from the gradient coil assembly, and the cable extends radially outward instead of axially. This dimensional change allows the cable to be securely anchored while accommodating vibrations and electromagnetic forces better, preventing unintended detachment while maintaining detachability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable block is pre-positioned and fixedly secured to the gradient coil assembly at a location radially outward from the isocenter. This preliminary positioning ensures that the cable is anchored in a stable location before connection, allowing the plug to be inserted into the mating connector with proper alignment and secure engagement, thereby preventing vibration-induced detachment.
2Ease of manufacture
If the cable extends axially away from the gradient coil, then the connection can be made with standard plug components, but the cable requires bending at a substantially ninety degree angle which is difficult given the cable gauge
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the cable block radially outward from the gradient coil assembly instead of allowing axial extension. This enables the cable to extend radially outward in a straight line without requiring ninety-degree bending. The radial orientation changes the spatial arrangement from axial to radial dimension, making cable installation straightforward while maintaining compatibility with standard plug and mating connector components.
3Reliability
If threaded connections with nuts and bolts are used, then the plug can be securely attached to the gradient coil, but the connection requires torqueing to relatively exact settings which complicates assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the cable block radially outward from the gradient coil assembly, allowing the cable to approach the mating connector from a radial direction rather than requiring axial alignment with threaded holes. This dimensional change enables simpler connection mechanisms that do not require precise torque settings, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining secure attachment through the radial geometry and proper anchoring of the cable block.
Data Source
AI summary
A connection system includes a connector electrically connected and fixedly secured to a gradient coil assembly of a magnetic resonance imaging device, a cable block fixedly secured to a magnet of the magnetic resonance imaging device substantially above the connector, and a cable having a first end electrically connected to the cable block and a second end received by the connector and forming an electrical connection between the connector and the cable block.