Novel method of measuring magnetically induced Forces

Abstract

The magnetic field of MRI scanners can induce forces on medical devices and patient implants. Several guidelines are in place to regulate those forces to guarantee patient safety. To modernize the measurement methods recommended by these guidelines, a system was developed to measure magnetically induced forces and optionally torque. The system moves a test object through the magnetic field and measures the required motor torque. From these measurements the induced force as a function of the magnetic field gradient is calculated. The obtained values are in good agreement with those from standardized measurements, while providing higher accuracy and repeatability.