Segmented Permanent Magnet Layout for Uniform MRI 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 segments, arranged to achieve a desired magnetic field strength and direction, with fluid-filled segments for optimal configuration and reduced weight.
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) to create a composite magnetic field that is both strong and homogeneous, resolving the contradiction between field stability and uniformity
Solution Approach 2:
Different segments of the permanent magnet are given different local magnetization properties. By varying the magnetization direction and strength in different regions, the patent creates a non-uniform magnetization distribution that produces a homogeneous magnetic field in the measurement volume, achieving both reliability and manufacturing precision
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 patent segments the permanent magnet into multiple smaller units with controlled magnetization directions, eliminating the need for additional heavy coils while achieving homogeneous field distribution through the segmented structure itself
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite magnetic structures combining permanent magnet segments with different magnetization properties. This composite approach creates a homogeneous magnetic field using only permanent magnet materials, avoiding the need for additional heavy components like coils
3Manufacturing precision
If the size and weight of permanent magnets are increased to improve magnetic field strength and uniformity, then magnetic field quality improves, but device portability and accessibility decrease
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the permanent magnet into multiple smaller magnetized units, the patent achieves homogeneous magnetic fields with smaller overall dimensions, making the device portable and accessible for field measurements while maintaining field uniformity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the magnetic field distribution by controlling magnetization in different spatial dimensions and directions within the segmented structure, achieving homogeneous fields with compact geometry that improves portability
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 generates a stronger, more uniform magnetic field with reduced weight and size, improving field uniformity and minimizing fringe fields, while allowing for flexible configuration and application in various settings.
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).