Split MRI Magnet Housings with Removable Buttress Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing MRI systems are difficult to move and install due to their large components, which limits their maneuverability and installation in existing spaces with limited access.
Innovation Solution
A split MRI system configuration with removably attached buttress assemblies connecting two main MRI magnet housings, allowing for disassembly and reassembly, and incorporating a gantry for radiation therapy, enabling easier relocation and installation while maintaining magnetic field uniformity and avoiding obstruction of radiation beams.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If MRI systems use large components to maintain magnetic field uniformity and functionality, then MRI quality and radiation therapy delivery are preserved, but the systems become difficult to move and install in existing spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The MRI system is divided into two separate main magnet assemblies (first and second main MRI magnets) housed in individual housings. These modular units can be moved and installed separately through existing access points, then connected via buttress assemblies to form the complete system. This segmentation allows each component to be smaller and more maneuverable while maintaining the overall functionality of the MRI system.
2Ease of operation
If the MRI system is split into separate magnet housings to improve maneuverability, then ease of installation is improved, but magnetic field uniformity may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Buttress assemblies serve as intermediary structures connecting the first and second main MRI magnet housings. These buttress assemblies include positioning and alignment features that ensure precise relative positioning of the separate magnet housings, thereby maintaining magnetic field uniformity despite the modular split configuration. The buttress assemblies act as mediators that bridge the gap between the separated components while preserving the integrity of the magnetic field.
3Ease of operation
If removably attached buttress assemblies are used to enable disassembly, then ease of relocation is improved, but structural stability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The buttress assemblies are designed with removable attachment mechanisms that allow the system to transition between a stable assembled state and a disassembled state for relocation. During operation, the removable attachments provide sufficient structural stability to maintain magnetic field uniformity and support the gantry, while enabling complete disassembly when relocation is required. This dynamic design allows the structure to adapt between stability and mobility as needed.
Data Source
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AI summary
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system includes a split magnet system having a pair of MRI magnet housings separated by gap. A pair of main MRI magnets are disposed within respective MRI magnet housings. A plurality of buttress assemblies are attached to the MRI magnet housings. Some or all of the buttress assemblies are provided with removable connections to the MRI magnet housings. This allows for partial disassembly of the MRI system for improved transport and maneuverability for relocating the MRI system. The MRI system can include a gantry in the gap for supporting a radiation therapy system. Also, the removably buttress assemblies can be used for housing conduits, such as electrical and fluid conduits, between the pair of MRI magnet housings.