Segmented Magnet Assembly for Homogeneous Resonance Fields
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic resonance-based devices face challenges in generating a homogeneous and stable magnetic field using permanent magnets, leading to increased device size and cost, and mobility issues in industrial settings.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising multiple magnetic segments with predetermined magnetization directions and shapes, including permanent magnets and ferromagnetic elements, arranged to generate a magnetic field with desired strength and direction, with fluid-filled segments for optimal positioning and reduced fringe fields.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If permanent magnets are used to generate a magnetic field for magnetic resonance spectroscopy and imaging, then a magnetic field can be produced without external power, but the magnetic field becomes non-homogeneous and insufficient for spectroscopy and imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The permanent magnet is divided into multiple segments with different magnetization directions. Each segment is magnetized in a specific direction (e.g., alternating polarities in adjacent segments) to create a composite magnetic field that is both strong and homogeneous, resolving the contradiction between field strength and uniformity
Solution Approach 2:
Different segments of the permanent magnet are given different local magnetic properties through selective magnetization directions. This allows each segment to contribute differently to the overall field, creating regions of enhanced uniformity in the measurement volume while maintaining overall field strength
2Manufacturing precision
If additional elements (coils) and larger permanent magnets are added to create a homogeneous magnetic field, then magnetic field uniformity improves, but device weight and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The permanent magnet is segmented into multiple pieces with alternating or specific magnetization directions, eliminating the need for additional coils while achieving field homogeneity. This reduces overall device weight compared to solutions using coils and large single-piece magnets
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a composite structure of multiple permanent magnet segments with different magnetization directions, creating a composite magnetic field that achieves homogeneity without requiring additional materials like coils or larger magnet volumes
3Manufacturing precision
If the size and weight of permanent magnets are increased to improve magnetic field homogeneity, then magnetic field uniformity improves, but device mobility and ease of operation decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The permanent magnet is divided into multiple smaller segments that can be arranged in compact configurations, reducing the overall device footprint and weight while maintaining field homogeneity through their collective magnetic field contribution
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of increasing magnet size in one dimension, the solution uses multiple smaller segments arranged in a multi-dimensional configuration (e.g., arrays or patterns), achieving field homogeneity through spatial distribution rather than volume increase
4Manufacturing precision
If the number of elements in the magnetic resonance device is increased to improve magnetic field quality, then magnetic field uniformity improves, but manufacturing and installation costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The permanent magnet is segmented into multiple pieces with different magnetization directions, achieving field homogeneity through the magnetic field composition of segments rather than through mechanical complexity or additional components like coils
Solution Approach 2:
The solution replaces mechanical solutions (larger single-piece magnets, additional coils, complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms) with a magnetic field-based solution using segmented permanent magnets with specific magnetization patterns, reducing overall device complexity
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 achieves improved magnetic field uniformity and strength, reduces device size and weight, and enhances mobility in industrial applications by optimizing segment configuration and positioning.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of magnetic segments, each magnetic segment positioned adjacent to at least one of the plurality of magnetic segments, and each magnetic segment having a magnetization direction
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of ferromagnetic segments, each ferromagnetic segment positioned adjacent to at least one of the plurality of magnetic segments
Data Source
AI summary
Generally, a system for generating a magnetic field having a desired magnetic field strength and/or a desired magnetic field direction is provided. The system can include a plurality of magnetic segments and/or a plurality of ferromagnetic segments. Each magnetic segment can be positioned adjacent to at least one of the plurality of magnetic segments. Each ferromagnetic segment can be positioned adjacent to at least one of the plurality of magnetic segments. In various embodiments, a size, shape, positioning and/or number of magnetic segments and/or ferromagnetic segments in the system, as well as a magnetization direction of the magnetic segments can be predetermined based on, for example, predetermined parameters of the system (e.g., a desired magnetic field strength, direction and/or uniformity of the magnetic field, a desired elimination of a magnetic fringe field and/or total weight of the system) and/or based on a desired application of the system (e.g., performing a magnetic resonance imaging of at least a portion of a patient and/or performing a magnetic resonance spectroscopy of a sample).