Rotatable Magnet Gradient Generator for Low-Energy MRI Fields
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gradient systems in MRI scanners are a significant cost factor and require large, power-hungry electrical current supplies, necessitating a more efficient and cost-effective method for generating gradient magnetic fields.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical gradient magnetic field generator using rotatable magnets, constrained by stationary and movable dividers, which are actuated to generate gradient fields with reduced energy consumption, potentially replacing conventional gradient coils.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If conventional gradient coils and power supplies are used, then gradient magnetic field can be generated, but energy consumption is high and system cost is significant
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional electrical gradient coil system with a mechanical system consisting of rotatable permanent magnets. The magnets are rotated by a movable divider to generate gradient magnetic fields, substituting electrical energy consumption with mechanical positioning, thereby dramatically reducing energy requirements while maintaining gradient field generation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamically rotatable permanent magnets that can change their orientation through the movable divider. This dynamic configuration allows the same magnetic elements to generate different gradient field patterns by rotating to different positions, enabling versatile gradient generation without requiring multiple static coil sets, thus reducing both energy consumption and system complexity
2Use of energy by moving object
If rotatable magnets are used to generate gradient fields, then energy consumption is reduced, but device complexity increases due to mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the magnetic field generation function into multiple discrete permanent magnets that can be independently rotated. Each magnet segment contributes to the overall gradient field, and their individual rotation is coordinated through the movable divider. This segmentation allows the complex task of gradient generation to be distributed across simpler magnetic elements rather than requiring a single complex electrical system
Solution Approach 2:
The movable divider serves multiple functions: it acts as a mechanical actuator to rotate magnets, serves as a structural support for the magnetic elements, and functions as part of the magnetic field generation system itself. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby simplifying the overall mechanical structure despite the added complexity of rotatable elements
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 mechanical generator reduces energy requirements for gradient field generation, offering a cost-effective and efficient alternative to conventional systems while maintaining gradient field strength and stability.
Implementation Method 1
a gradient magnetic field generator that comprises a field generating element that comprises at least one generator layer... a set of rotatable magnets positioned between the moveable divider and the stationary divider... each having a magnetic dipole moment
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a mechanical gradient magnetic field generator (100, 500, 1600, 1700, 2000, 2112) comprising a field generating element (102) comprising at least one generator layer (104). Each of the at least one generator layer comprises: a stationary divider (106); a movable divider (108) configured for moving in one (110) or two (1602) displacement directions; a mechanical element (112) configured to mechanically assist movement of the movable divider in the one or two displacement directions towards an initial position (508); and a set of rotatable magnets (114) positioned between the movable divider and the stationary divider. The set of rotatable magnets are mechanically coupled to the movable divider and to the stationary divider. The mechanical coupling of the set of rotatable magnets is such that movement of the movable divider in the one or two displacement directions causes an individual rotation of each of the set of rotatable magnets.