Vibration reduction system for magnetic-resonance imaging apparatus

Abstract

A magnetic-resonance imaging apparatus has superconducting magnets for generating a large uniform magnetic field within a predetermined volume. Within that volume, coils for generating magnetic field gradients are supported on a bobbin, enabling an object within the bobbin to be investigated. The coils on the bobbin are subject to forces but are rigidly connected to the bobbin. Therefore, energy is transmitted to the bobbin which can cause the bobbin to vibrate and so generate noise. To dissipate that energy, the coils are attached to tubes, or other hollow members, on the bobbin, which tubes or hollow members contain movable bodies such as particulate material. The energy due to the forces on the coils cause the movable bodies to move and collide, so dissipating the energy and reducing the noise.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.