RF Shielding Conduit for MRI Doorframes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) devices generate strong radiofrequency (RF) radiation that interferes with surrounding electronic equipment and poses risks to patients and medical equipment, requiring dedicated shielding to prevent electromagnetic interference (EMI) and the 'projectile effect' of ferromagnetic objects within the MRI bore.
Innovation Solution
A radiofrequency (RF) shielding conduit and hinge system are integrated into the MRI device's closure assembly, allowing passage of medical equipment tubing while providing RF shielding, characterized by a length-to-width ratio greater than a predefined value, and featuring a conduit with apertures and a telescopic design for various shapes and sizes, along with an emergency release mechanism for safe patient access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a closure assembly is used to seal the MRI bore aperture, then RF shielding is improved, but passage of medical equipment tubing is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The closure assembly is divided into multiple segments: a first closure assembly segment that closes the aperture and a second closure assembly segment that provides passage for medical equipment tubing. This segmentation allows the system to simultaneously achieve RF shielding through the first segment while maintaining operational access through the second segment.
Solution Approach 2:
A conduit is introduced as an intermediary structure that allows medical equipment tubing to pass through the closure assembly without compromising the RF shielding integrity. The conduit acts as a mediator between the need for sealing and the need for passage.
2Ease of operation
If the MRI bore aperture is kept open for passage of medical equipment, then ease of operation is improved, but RF shielding is compromised and projectile objects can enter
Solution Approach 1:
The closure assembly is divided into multiple segments: a first closure assembly segment that closes the aperture and a second closure assembly segment that provides passage for medical equipment tubing. This segmentation allows the system to simultaneously achieve RF shielding through the first segment while maintaining operational access through the second segment.
Solution Approach 2:
A conduit is introduced as an intermediary structure that allows medical equipment tubing to pass through the closure assembly without compromising the RF shielding integrity. The conduit acts as a mediator between the need for sealing and the need for passage.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If medical equipment is disconnected from patients for imaging, then RF shielding is improved, but patient safety and comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A conduit is introduced as an intermediary structure that allows medical equipment tubing to pass through the closure assembly without compromising the RF shielding integrity. The conduit acts as a mediator between the need for sealing and the need for passage.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure assembly is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: providing RF shielding, allowing passage of medical equipment tubing, and maintaining patient safety. This multi-functionality eliminates the need to choose between shielding and patient care.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If waveguide attenuators and RF filters are used in conduits, then RF shielding is improved, but device complexity and pre-planning requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The RF shielding functionality is merged into the closure assembly structure itself rather than requiring separate waveguide attenuators and RF filters. The first and second closure assembly segments form an integrated shielding system that eliminates the need for additional pre-planned components.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure assembly is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: providing RF shielding, allowing passage of medical equipment tubing, and maintaining patient safety. This multi-functionality eliminates the need to choose between shielding and patient care.
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
The system effectively shields RF interference, prevents the 'projectile effect', and allows continuous medical support during MRI procedures without disconnecting patients from life-supporting equipment, enhancing safety and reducing complications.
Implementation Method 1
A radiofrequency (RF) shielding conduit... is embedded within at least one of: a doorframe, a door or any combination thereof of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) room... the RF shielding conduit forms upon closing of a door onto the doorframe a RF shielding channel to provide a RF shielding of the MRI room
Implementation Method 2
All fluid and air passing tubes are threaded through a conduit that is configured to attenuate EMI
Data Source
AI summary
A radiofrequency (RF) shielding conduits that can be embedded within a doorframe and/or a door of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) room are disclosed. The RF shielding conduits can form, upon closing of door onto the doorframe, an RF shielding channel to enclose and/or allow passage of tubing of medical equipment extending from an interior of the MRI room to an environment that is external to the MRI room, while providing a RF shielding of the MRI room.