Wireless Coil Adaptor for MRI Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
MRI systems configured for wired coils cannot utilize wireless coils, leading to high upgrade costs and prolonged downtime, and the existing setup restricts flexibility and increases the risk of RF heating due to cable presence.
Innovation Solution
A wireless coil adaptor with a plug connector and wireless communication module that enables wireless communication between the wireless coil and the MRI system, acting as a gateway to receive and transmit imaging data, and provide control signals, allowing the use of wireless coils with MRI systems without upgrades or replacements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If MRI systems are configured for wired coils, then system stability and signal transmission reliability are improved, but adaptability to wireless technology and operational flexibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a wireless coil adaptor as an intermediary device that connects between the MRI system's wired receptacle and wireless RF coils. The adaptor includes a plug connector that interfaces with the MRI system's receptacle and a wireless communication module that enables wireless communication with RF coils, thereby bridging the gap between wired and wireless technologies without requiring MRI system modifications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If MRI systems are upgraded or replaced to support wireless coils, then adaptability and flexibility are improved, but cost and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the wireless communication functionality into a separate, standalone adaptor device rather than integrating it into the MRI system itself. This allows the wireless capability to be added as a modular component that can be easily installed and removed without affecting the core MRI system, thereby minimizing downtime and avoiding costly system-wide upgrades.
3Stability of the object's composition
If wired RF coils are used with MRI systems, then connection stability is improved, but setup time and risk of RF heating increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical cable connection system with a wireless communication system. The wireless coil adaptor uses electromagnetic fields for data and power transmission instead of physical cables, eliminating the mechanical connection while maintaining stable communication through wireless protocols. This substitution reduces setup time by eliminating cable plugging and unplugging operations.
4Reliability
If wired RF coils with cables are used, then power and data transmission are reliable, but harmful effects from RF heating and cable presence increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the cable component from the RF coil system. By using wireless communication technology, the physical cable that conducts RF energy and causes heating is completely eliminated. The wireless coil adaptor transmits power and data through electromagnetic fields in the air, removing the source of RF heating problems associated with cable-based systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless coil adaptor includes a first plug connector configured to be inserted within a receptacle connector of an MRI system, the receptacle connector being configured for receiving a second plug connector of a wired radio frequency (RF) coil. The wireless coil adaptor also includes a wireless communication module configured to wirelessly communicate with a wireless RF coil.