Threaded Tubular Element Connection on MRI Carrier Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for connecting tubular elements to a carrier plate in MRI cooling systems are time-consuming and expensive, and they do not allow for individual connection of cooling hoses at varying distances, which can reduce cooling performance due to the formation of eddy currents and the need for manual knotting.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using thread-like connecting elements through predefined openings in the carrier plate, with a winding plate and displacement device to position and securely attach tubular elements in meandering tracks, allowing for individual and cost-effective connection of tubular elements, reducing eddy currents and improving cooling performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If tubular elements are connected manually in pairs and in contact with each other, then the connection process is simplified, but the cooling performance is reduced due to eddy currents
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the connection process into individual tubular element connections rather than connecting pairs together. Each tubular element is connected separately to the carrier plate at predefined positions, preventing the formation of continuous conductive paths that would create eddy currents while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized individual connection procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces predefined connection positions and thread-like connecting elements as intermediaries between the tubular elements and the carrier plate. This intermediary connection system allows for controlled, isolated connections that prevent eddy current formation while maintaining ease of manufacture through standardized connection points and methods
2Ease of manufacture
If cooling hoses are connected in pairs and in contact with each other, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but eddy currents are generated reducing cooling efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the cooling hose connections into individual separate connections at predefined positions on the carrier plate, rather than connecting hoses in pairs. This segmentation breaks the continuous conductive path that would allow eddy currents to form, thereby maintaining cooling efficiency while preserving manufacturing simplicity through standardized individual connection procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by creating specific non-conductive zones between tubular elements through the carrier plate material and connection geometry. The carrier plate and connection design locally prevent electrical contact between adjacent tubular elements, eliminating eddy current paths at critical locations while maintaining overall manufacturing efficiency
3Reliability
If all cooling hoses are knotted by hand, then the connection is secure, but the process is time-consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-defining connection positions, opening locations, and tubular element placement sites on the carrier plate before the actual connection process. This preliminary preparation enables automated or semi-automated connection procedures using thread-like elements, maintaining secure connections while dramatically reducing manual labor time and costs compared to hand-knotting
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical knotting system with a standardized thread-like connecting element system that can be applied more efficiently. The thread-like elements pass through predefined openings and can be secured with simple fastening operations, substituting the complex manual knotting process while maintaining connection security and enabling higher productivity
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for a positionally fixed connection of a tubular element on a support plate via defined openings of the support plate using at least one thread-shaped connection element. The at least one tubular element is arranged in defined tube holding tracks of a winding plate designed as an installation aid. Additionally, in the method according to the invention, a support plate with defined openings is positioned on the winding plate tubular elements located in the tube holding tracks, and the support plate is held by the winding plate in an indexed position relative to the support plate. In the indexed position, corresponding recesses are provided in the winding plate below the defined openings of the support plate. Lastly, in the method according to the invention, the tubular elements are connected to the support plate mechanically via the specified openings using the at least one thread-shaped connection element. By virtue of the method according to the invention, tubular elements can be advantageously mutually spaced over the entire course thereof, and each tubular element can be connected individually to the support plate in an inexpensive and reliable manner.