RF Wireless Bridge Through an MRI Shielded Window
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high attenuation of RF signals by electromagnetically shielded windows in MRI systems hampers direct wireless communication between devices inside and outside the shielded environment, particularly for high-bandwidth applications like real-time audio and video data transmission.
Innovation Solution
A wireless bridge system using RF communication devices positioned with sufficient proximity to each other on either side of the attenuating window facilitates indirect communication, employing different frequencies and configurations to overcome signal loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If an electromagnetically shielded window is installed to protect against electromagnetic radiation, then protection against electromagnetic radiation is improved, but wireless communication capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A wireless communication system is introduced as an intermediary component integrated into the shielded window. This mediator enables wireless signals to pass through the electromagnetic shield by providing a designated transmission path, thus maintaining both the shielding protection and wireless communication capability simultaneously
2Reliability
If a wireless communication system is integrated into a shielded window, then wireless communication capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless communication system is merged with the shielded window structure, integrating multiple functions (shielding and communication) into a single unified device. This combination eliminates the need for separate components and reduces overall system complexity despite adding communication functionality
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
Enables high-quality, indirect wireless communication across the shielded window, allowing flexible device positioning and supporting various transmission modes, including wired and wireless connections.
Implementation Method 1
a shielded window that blocks harmful electromagnetic radiation
Implementation Method 2
a wireless communication system that enables wireless communication through the shielded window
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and devices are provided in which an RF wireless bridge is employed to facilitate indirect transmission of communication signals between external devices located outside of an electromagnetically shielding enclosure within internal devices located within the enclosure, via the intermediate transmission of RF waves through an RF attenuating window forming a portion of the enclosure. The wireless bridge is formed from a first RF communication device located within the electromagnetically shielding enclosure, and a second RF communication device located outside of the enclosure, where the two RF communication devices are positioned with sufficient proximity such that the wireless bridge facilitates indirect communication through the RF attenuating window despite attenuation of RF energy by the RF attenuating window. In another example embodiment, the electromagnetically shielding enclosure may enclose at least a portion of the first RF communication device to reduce noise that could impact the performance of the magnetic resonance scanner.