Patent ID: 8278927
Filing Date: 2012-10-02
Classification: G01R,H02M

Abstract:
1. A multilevel inverter for generating an AC output voltage from a DC voltage source such that the generated AC voltage produces a current in a gradient coil of a magnetic resonance imaging system, the multilevel inverter comprising: an input voltage supply device configured for providing a divided DC voltage; at least eight switching arms for deriving the AC output voltages from the divided DC voltages, each of the switching arms comprising an input terminal receiving the divided DC voltage, a switching device controlling the AC output voltage, and an output terminal providing the AC output voltage; at least four diodes, each of the four diodes connected to a single pair of switching arms, the four diodes forming a full bridge having positive and negative nodes, one of the nodes connected to the input voltage supply device and another node connected to the input terminals of the switching arms; and a controller coupled to the input voltage supply device and the four diodes, the controller configured for producing plurality of control signals for controlling the AC output voltage.