Splittable RF Coil Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing local coils for magnetic resonance scans are inconvenient to disassemble due to mismatched force directions during unlocking, and they require additional protection for exposed metal connectors.
Innovation Solution
A local coil design featuring a locking apparatus with a turnable engagement plate and return spring that allows for simultaneous unlocking and separation in the same direction, eliminating the need for a separate connector protection apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the upper coil is unlocked by pressing buttons towards the radially inner side, then the locking engagement is released, but the upper coil moves in a direction perpendicular to the radial direction requiring additional operator effort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional unlocking mechanism by making the engagement plate rotatable rather than using push buttons. The engagement plate rotates in the same direction as the upper coil removal direction, so that unlocking and removal motions are aligned. This inversion of the unlocking action direction resolves the contradiction by making the unlocking motion consistent with the removal motion, improving ease of operation while maintaining reliable engagement.
2Reliability
If metal connectors are exposed on the outside of the upper coil for electrical connection, then electrical connectivity is achieved, but the connectors are vulnerable to damage when the upper coil is placed on its own
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the engagement plate with the upper coil structure, making them a single integrated component. The engagement plate not only serves the locking function but also extends beyond the coil to protect the exposed metal connectors. This merging of functions allows the same structural element to provide both mechanical engagement and physical protection for the connectors, eliminating the need for separate protecting elements.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a separate protecting element is added to protect metal connectors, then connector damage is prevented, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the protection function into the existing engagement plate structure. The engagement plate is designed to extend beyond the coil body, naturally protecting the exposed connectors without requiring additional separate protecting elements. This merging approach prevents connector damage while avoiding the increased device complexity that would result from adding separate protection components.
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
Enhances disassembly efficiency and prevents connector damage by aligning the unlocking force with the separation motion and projecting engagement plates beyond connectors for surface contact, thus eliminating the need for additional protection.
Implementation Method 1
The locking apparatus comprises a return spring, the return spring being set so as to always apply a force to the engagement plate towards the locking position
Data Source
AI summary
The present utility model provides a local coil, comprising: a first coil half body; a second coil half body, provided with an electrical connector protruding towards the first coil half body, and being electrically connectable to the first coil half body by means of the electrical connector, the second coil half body being separable from the first coil half body together with the electrical connector in a first direction; a locking apparatus, comprising an engagement plate shaft-supported on the second coil half body, one end of the engagement plate being engagable with the first coil half body in a locking position, and one end of the engagement plate being turnable in the same direction as the first direction so as to move to an unlocking position in which the engagement is released, and in a state in which the first coil half body and the second coil half body have been separated, the locking apparatus can remain in a position in which the locking apparatus projects further than the electrical connector in a direction of protrusion of the electrical connector.