Patent ID: 6011394
Filing Date: 2000-01-04
Classification: G01R

Abstract:
A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus including a main field magnet for generating a temporally constant magnetic field through an examination region, a radio frequency transmitter for exciting and manipulating magnetic resonance in selected dipoles in the examination region, a receiver for demodulating magnetic resonance signals received from the examination region, a processor for reconstructing the demodulated resonance signals into an image representation, and a self-shielded gradient coil assembly for inducing gradient magnetic fields across the temporally constant magnetic field, the self-shielded gradient coil assembly including;a single former;primary gradient coils supported by said former;a plurality of combs extending from said former, the combs each having support means in a surface thereof;a plurality of shielding gradient coils at least one of which is supported directly by the support means such that the shielding gradient coils are radially displaced from the primary gradient coils by the combs to define a passage therebetween; andthe former, primary gradient coils, combs, and shielding gradient coils being encased together in a potting material to form a unitary construction.