Waveguide Insert for MRI Faraday Cage Signal Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems face challenges in allowing communication and signal transmission between individuals inside and outside the Faraday cage due to its electromagnetic shielding properties, which hinder wireless signal propagation and require cumbersome wired connections, especially during procedures where movement is necessary.
Innovation Solution
The development of a device and method using a waveguide insert with a shielded transmission line and support structure that maintains electrical contact with the Faraday cage, enabling the transmission of electrical signals and wireless communication through a waveguide port without compromising the MRI system's functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a Faraday cage is used to block electromagnetic energy, then image quality is preserved and outside interference is eliminated, but wireless signal propagation is hindered and communication between scanner room and control room is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
A waveguide insert is introduced as an intermediary device that selectively transmits electrical signals while blocking electromagnetic radiation. The waveguide insert acts as a mediator between the Faraday cage and communication devices, allowing desired signal transmission while maintaining the cage's electromagnetic shielding function.
Solution Approach 2:
The waveguide insert provides localized electromagnetic properties within the Faraday cage structure. By creating a specific region with different electromagnetic characteristics (permeable to electrical signals but blocking to electromagnetic radiation), the system achieves both shielding and communication functions in different locations.
2Reliability
If wired solutions are used to enable communication through the Faraday cage, then signal transmission is achieved, but the presence of wires becomes cumbersome and complicates movement during clinical procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wired connection system with an electromagnetic field-based transmission system. Electrical signals are transmitted through the waveguide insert using electromagnetic fields rather than physical wire connections, eliminating the mechanical constraints that limited movement freedom.
3Ease of operation
If wireless devices are used inside the scanner room, then communication convenience is improved, but electromagnetic interference with the MR scanner occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The Faraday cage, which initially appears as a harmful barrier blocking all wireless communication, is converted into a beneficial shielding structure. By strategically placing waveguide inserts, the system allows desired electrical signal transmission while the cage continues to block harmful electromagnetic radiation that would interfere with the MR scanner.
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 solution allows for reliable communication and signal delivery between the scanner room and control room, reducing clutter and maintaining image quality by preventing electromagnetic interference, thus enhancing operational efficiency during MRI procedures.
Implementation Method 1
a support structure configured to support the at least one shielded transmission line within the waveguide port while maintaining electrical contact between the outer conductor and the Faraday cage
Implementation Method 2
The purpose of the Faraday cage is to block any electromagnetic energy within the operating bandwidth of the MR scanner
Implementation Method 3
the presence of the device within the waveguide port does not compromise the function of the waveguide port as a high pass transmission waveguide
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide devices, methods, and systems that support electrical connection, signal delivery, and/or communication between internal and external portions of a Faraday cage. In some embodiments, devices and methods are provided for transmitting electrical signals through a waveguide port of a Faraday cage. In some embodiments, aspects of the present disclosure are employed to adapt a magnetic resonance imaging system for communications between a scanner room and a control room.