Single-Sided MRI Gradient Coils for Patient Comfort
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current MRI systems are limited by the need for large electromagnetic gradient coils that surround the patient, restricting movement and causing discomfort, as they are designed for enclosed form factors which are not suitable for modern single-sided MRI configurations.
Innovation Solution
A single-sided gradient coil set comprising spiral coils configured to project a uniform electromagnetic field gradient away from the coil set, allowing for partial rather than full enclosure of the patient, with adjustable current directions and electronic components for tuning, and cryogenic cooling to enhance efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If large electromagnetic gradient coils are used to surround the patient, then a linear and monotonic magnetic field gradient is created throughout the entire field of view, but patient movement is severely limited and comfort is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The gradient coil system is divided into multiple independent spiral coils (first spiral coils and second spiral coils) positioned at different locations. Each coil can be independently controlled to generate the required gradient field components, allowing the system to achieve uniform gradient coverage without requiring a fully enclosing coil configuration around the patient.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional planar gradient coil configurations to three-dimensional spiral coil structures. The spiral coils are wound in multiple dimensions and positioned at different heights and orientations, creating a volumetric gradient field that can penetrate and uniformize the magnetic field throughout the imaging region without surrounding the patient completely.
2Area of stationary object
If fully enclosing gradient coils are used, then complete coverage of the imaging region is achieved, but device complexity and patient burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coil system is segmented into discrete, independently controllable spiral coils positioned at specific locations rather than using a single complex enclosing structure. This segmentation allows each coil to be optimized for its specific position and function, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive imaging region coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The spiral coil configuration is designed to perform multiple functions: generating gradient fields, providing field uniformity, and enabling flexible imaging geometry. The same spiral coil structure can be used for different imaging applications and patient positions, reducing the need for specialized coil configurations for different scenarios.
3Stability of the object's composition
If traditional gradient coils are used, then enclosed form factor is maintained, but scan time and bioeffects are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The spiral coil configuration enables dynamic control of the gradient field generation, allowing for faster switching and more flexible timing of gradient applications. This dynamic capability permits optimized scan sequences that reduce total scan time while maintaining image quality, as the coils can be rapidly reconfigured and reactivated without the constraints of traditional enclosed coil geometries.
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 configuration reduces patient movement restrictions, improves comfort, and enables faster scan times with reduced bioeffects by generating a strong, uniform magnetic field gradient that can be projected outward from the coil set, maintaining image quality while minimizing coil temperature and peripheral nerve stimulation.
Implementation Method 1
the coil set is configured to receive a current through the one or more first spiral coils and the one or more second spiral coils to generate an electromagnetic field gradient configured to project away from the coil set and into an imaging region
Implementation Method 2
cryogenic cooling to enhance efficiency... minimizing coil temperature and peripheral nerve stimulation
Data Source
AI summary
A single-sided gradient coil set for single-sided magnetic resonance imaging system is disclosed. The coil set is configured to generate a magnetic field outwards away from the coil set. The coil set includes one or more first spiral coils at a first position relative to the aperture and one or more second spiral coils at a second position relative to the aperture. The coil set is configure to flow a current through the one or more first spiral coils and the one or more second spiral coils to generate an electromagnetic field gradient configured to project away from the coil set and into an imaging region of the magnetic imaging system.