Multi-Channel RF Transmit Power Switching for Uneven MRI Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-channel RF transmit systems for magnetic resonance examination systems face inefficiencies due to unequal RF power requirements across channels, leading to over-specification of DC power supply chains, which results in cost-ineffective designs and potential performance dependencies between amplifiers.
Innovation Solution
A multi-channel RF transmit system with segmented power supply and multiple capacitor banks connected to DC switches, allowing dynamic redistribution of stored energy based on actual RF demands, enabling efficient and cost-effective power distribution across RF channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a shared DC power supply is used for multiple RF amplifiers, then cost is reduced, but amplifier performance becomes dependent on each other due to voltage drops
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power supply system into segmented DC power supplies, where each RF amplifier channel has its own dedicated DC power supply. This segmentation ensures that voltage fluctuations in one channel do not affect other channels, maintaining performance independence while allowing for modular and cost-effective design compared to over-specifying a single shared supply.
2Reliability
If DC power supply is over-specified to meet maximum power demands, then amplifier performance is ensured, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic power management through capacitor banks that can be switched in and out based on real-time power demands. During high-power pulses, capacitor banks supplement the DC power supply, allowing the system to meet peak demands without permanently over-specifying the DC power supply capacity, thus reducing overall system cost while maintaining performance.
Solution Approach 2:
Capacitor banks are pre-charged during low-power intervals to store energy before high-power RF pulses are applied. This preliminary energy storage allows the system to deliver high peak power without requiring the DC power supply to be continuously capable of providing maximum power, optimizing the balance between performance and cost.
3Power
If capacitor banks are used for short-term high duty cycle pulses, then power supply capability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the DC power supply and capacitor banks into an integrated hybrid power system with unified control. The DC power supplies and capacitor banks work together as a coordinated system, managed by control circuitry that automatically switches between sources based on power demands, simplifying the overall system architecture compared to separate independent systems.
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 allows for more efficient distribution of DC power, overcoming unequal RF power requirements and reducing costs by decoupling amplifier performance, while maintaining stable voltage and efficient energy use.
Implementation Method 1
the capacitor banks temporarily store the incoming power from the power supply device, and discharge the stored power, when necessary, to the amplification amplifiers
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-channel RF transmit system (1) especially for use in a magnetic resonance examination system comprising, a plurality of RF channels (18, 19) wherein each of the RF channels (18, 19) has an RF amplifier. The multi-channel RF transmit system (1) further comprises a power supply device (2) configured to supply power to the amplifiers (4, 5), a first capacitor bank (6), wherein the first capacitor bank (6) is connected to the power supply device (2) and connected to a first RF amplifier (4), a second capacitor bank (7), wherein the second capacitor bank (7) is connected to the power supply device (2) and connected to a second RF amplifier (5) and a third capacitor bank (8) also connected to the power supply device (2). The third capacitor bank (8) is connected to a DC switch (9), wherein the DC switch (9) is configured to switch the power supplied by the third capacitor bank (8) to the first amplifier (4) or the second amplifier (5). Therefore, a multi-channel RF transmit system (1) is disclosed where parts of the total available capabilities of discrete stored energy can be directed to one or the other RF amplifier channel (18, 19) leading to a more effective and cost saving design of the DC power supply chain.