Wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning

Abstract

A magnetic resonance system includes a wireless power detection sensor and a wireless energy harvesting circuit. The wireless power detection sensor detects magnetic resonance emission of the magnetic resonance system. The wireless energy harvesting circuit harvests energy from the magnetic resonance emission based on the wireless power detection sensor detecting the magnetic resonance emission.

Description

Background Art

[0001] Magnetic resonance imaging systems are complex systems that use magnets to align and realign the hydrogen nuclei (protons) in water molecules in the body of the imaged subject (e.g., a human). A strong first magnetic field is applied to align the proton "spins," which can then be systematically realigned by applying a second magnetic field. The magnetic resonance imaging system can include a radio frequency (RF) coil for selectively delivering the B1 field in the transmit phase. In the receive phase, the hydrogen atoms return to their original positions (i.e., the positions before the B1 field was selectively delivered) and emit a weak radio frequency signal that can be picked up and used to produce an image.

[0002] The RF surface coil can be placed close to the patient and the body part of interest in order to pick up weak RF signals during the receive phase. Such a RF surface coil may be provided with a detuning circuit for detuning the RF surface coil in the transmit phase when the hydrogen nuclei are realigned. Currently, a direct current (DC) cable is used to power the detuning circuit in the RF surface coil. Each RF surface coil or coil element may have a detuning circuit connected to a DC cable. The DC cable for the detuning circuit is powered by a system power supply.

[0003] In magnetic resonance imaging systems, DC cables used for detuning circuits are susceptible to RF surface currents, which can burn tissue when the DC cables are placed too close to the imaged subject. In addition, high levels of DC current can cause B0 artifacts in the resulting image of the subject. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] The exemplary embodiments are best understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be emphasized that the various features are not necessarily drawn to scale. In fact, for clarity of discussion, the dimensions can be increased or decreased arbitrarily. Whenever applicable and practical, the same reference numerals represent the same elements.

[0005] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional side view of a magnetic resonance imaging system for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0006] Figure 2 is a diagram of an arrangement of elements for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0007] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional side view of a magnetic resonance imaging system for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] Figure 4is a cross-sectional front view of a magnetic resonance imaging system for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] 5 is a flow chart illustrating a method of operation for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 6 is a circuit diagram for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 7 is a timing diagram for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 8 is another circuit diagram for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] Fig. 9 is another circuit diagram for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] Fig.10 is another circuit diagram for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] Fig.11 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary general purpose computer system including an instruction set for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Fig.12 is a sequence diagram for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] In the following detailed description, for the purpose of explanation rather than limitation, representative embodiments of the disclosure of specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments according to the present teachings. The description of known systems, equipment, materials, operating methods, and manufacturing methods may be omitted to avoid obscuring the description of the representative embodiments. Nevertheless, systems, equipment, materials, and methods within the knowledge of those of ordinary skill in the art are also within the scope of the present teachings and may be used according to the representative embodiments. It should be understood that the terms used herein are only used for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. The defined terms are supplementary to the technical and scientific meanings of the defined terms that are generally understood and accepted in the technical field of the present teachings.

[0018] It should be understood that although the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. may be used herein to describe various elements or components, these elements or components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element or component from another element or component. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the present invention, the first element or component discussed below may be referred to as the second element or component.

[0019] The terms used herein are only used for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. As used in the specification and claims, the singular forms of the terms "one", "an" and "the" are intended to include singular and plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In addition, when used in this specification, the terms "include" and / or "comprise" and / or similar terms specify the presence of the features, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, parts and / or their groups. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any combination and all combinations of one or more associated list items in the associated list items.

[0020] Unless otherwise specified, when an element or component is referred to as being "connected to," "coupled to," or "adjacent to" another element or component, it will be understood that the element or component can be directly connected or coupled to the other element or component, or that there may be intermediate elements or components. That is, these terms and similar terms include situations where one or more intermediate elements or components may be used to connect two elements or components. However, when an element or component is referred to as being "directly connected" to another element or component, this only includes situations where two elements or components are connected to each other without any intermediate or intermediary elements or components.

[0021] Furthermore, it should be understood that, in addition to its ordinary meaning, the term "substantially" or "substantially" means within limits or degrees that are acceptable to one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, "substantially offset" means that one of ordinary skill in the art would consider the offset to be acceptable. Similarly, in addition to its ordinary meaning, the term "approximately" means within limits or amounts that are acceptable to one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, "approximately the same" means that one of ordinary skill in the art would consider the items being compared to be the same.

[0022] In view of the foregoing, the present disclosure is therefore intended to bring one or more of the advantages specifically noted below, through one or more aspects, embodiments, and / or specific features or sub-components in various aspects of the present disclosure. For the purpose of explanation and not limitation, exemplary embodiments that disclose specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments according to the present teachings. However, other embodiments consistent with the present disclosure that depart from the specific details disclosed herein are still within the scope of the claims. In addition, descriptions of well-known devices and methods may be omitted so as not to obscure the description of the exemplary embodiments. These methods and devices are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0023] As described herein, energy emitted during a magnetic resonance (MR) transmit phase is detected, collected, and reused to power one or more circuits used with a magnetic resonance imaging system. Circuits powered by the reused energy can include, for example, a power detection circuit that detects power levels in the magnetic resonance transmit phase and a detuning circuit that detunes a coil during the magnetic resonance transmit phase. The coil can be a radio frequency coil, including a radio frequency surface coil that is placed on or near an imaged object. The radio frequency surface coil is a single element in an array, and multiple such radio frequency surface coils can be placed on or near an object to work with a magnetic resonance imaging system.

[0024] The detection, collection and reuse can be performed without control signals from the magnetic resonance imaging system. In addition, the detection, collection and reuse described herein can be performed wirelessly with respect to energy provided by the magnetic resonance imaging system in a transmit phase. That is, the detection, collection and reuse described herein can be performed without the use of, for example, a DC power cable to provide power to a power detection sensor or a detuning circuit.

[0025] Power detection can be performed during the transmit phase using a wireless power detection sensor. The power detection can be synchronized with a signal provided to a collection circuit and a detuning circuit to be turned on so that energy is collected and provided to the detuning circuit. The collected energy is collected from a radio frequency coil of a magnetic resonance imaging system during the transmit phase. The collected energy is used to power (one or more) power detection sensors and detuning circuits used, for example, with a magnetic resonance imaging system. (One or more) power detection sensors detect high levels of energy during the magnetic resonance transmit phase and detect low levels of energy during the receive phase of a magnetic resonance sequence so that detection, collection, and reuse can be synchronized.

[0026] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional side view of a magnetic resonance imaging system for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1The magnetic resonance imaging system 100 in the embodiment includes a cylindrical magnet 105 having a bore. The magnet 105 may be housed in a housing that serves as an outer surface of the magnetic resonance imaging system 100, otherwise, it would be about Figure 1 The outermost functional elements of the embodiment described in the embodiment of the present invention are provided in the bore of the magnet 105. The other elements of the magnetic resonance imaging system 100 are provided in the bore of the magnet 105. In addition, an object to be imaged (not shown) is placed in the bore of the magnet 105. The cylindrical magnet mentioned is only an example, as other types of magnets can also be used for the magnetic resonance imaging system, including a split cylindrical magnet or an open magnet.

[0027] Figure 1 The magnetic resonance imaging system 100 in the embodiment also includes a cylindrical body coil 106 immediately inside the magnet 105. The body coil 106 provides a uniform static main magnetic field that excites and aligns the hydrogen atoms. An example of a uniform magnetic field provided by the body coil 105 is 1.5 Tesla, 3.0 Tesla, or 7.0 Tesla. Although the present disclosure is primarily described using hydrogen atoms, the teachings of the present disclosure can also be used and applied to a variety of different types of nuclear / spectral imaging techniques and systems. Nuclear / spectral imaging techniques and systems that can use wireless magnetic resonance energy collection and coil detuning can use a variety of types of atoms, including, but not limited to, phosphorus, sodium, and carbon.

[0028] Figure 1 The magnetic resonance imaging system 100 in the embodiment also includes a field gradient coil 110. The field gradient coil 110 is located immediately inside the body coil 106. The field gradient coil is a relatively low frequency coil used to select a plane of interest relative to the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis. The field gradient coil 110 is used to generate a magnetic field through the object in the bore of the magnet housing 105 by using a field gradient. This enables different three-dimensional cross-sections or slices within the bore to become associated with a frequency and phase encoding coordinate system.

[0029] Figure 1 The magnetic resonance imaging system 100 in the embodiment also includes a radio frequency coil 107. The radio frequency coil 107 is located immediately inside the field gradient coil 110. The radio frequency coil 107 is used to deliver the B1 field to a selected slice of the imaging zone 108. The selected slice may correspond symmetrically to one or more different three-dimensional cross sections within the bore. The delivery of the B1 field results in the manipulation of the orientation of the magnetic spins of the hydrogen nuclei within the imaging zone 108 of the magnetic resonance imaging system 100. The radio frequency coil 107 is used in the transmitting phase and may be used in the receiving phase in some systems. That is, once the transmitting cycle is completed, the hydrogen atoms return to their original positions and emit a weak radio frequency signal. This weak radio frequency signal from the hydrogen atoms returning to their original positions is the signal picked up in the receiving phase of the magnetic resonance imaging cycle.

[0030] exist Figure 1In the embodiment of the present invention, wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning circuit 109 is provided in the imaging zone 108. The wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning circuit 109 can provide a variety of different and varying characteristics, including:

[0031] °1.) detecting magnetic resonance emissions from the radio frequency coil(s) 107,

[0032] °2.) collecting energy from detected magnetic resonance emissions of a magnetic resonance imaging system in a transmit phase,

[0033] °3.) Compare the detected magnetic resonance emission with a threshold,

[0034] °4.) when no operating pulse is detected, no energy is collected from the magnetic resonance imaging system, and

[0035] °5.) Detuning the radio frequency surface coil elements using energy harvested from detected magnetic resonance emissions.

[0036] That is, the wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning circuit 109 can be provided with a radio frequency surface coil 102 placed close to the patient and the body part of interest so as to pick up weak radio frequency signals in the receiving phase. The wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning circuit 109 will be used as a detuning circuit for detuning such a radio frequency surface coil in the transmitting phase when the hydrogen nuclei are realigned. And the wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and detuning circuit 109 can be provided with a transceiver for sending data of the weak radio frequency signals from the hydrogen atoms of the object to the processor for analysis and display. However, the wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning circuit 109 is also provided with the ability to detect energy and selectively harvest energy from the magnetic resonance imaging system 100 to self-power the wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning circuit 109 with the re-harvested energy.

[0037] That is, as described above, atoms such as hydrogen nuclei (spins) are first aligned by the main magnetic field from the body coil 106, and then the imaging plane of interest is set according to the field gradient coil 110. The radio frequency coil 107 provides the B1 field to a specified slice within the imaging area 108. When the realigned nuclei (spins) return to their previous positions, the radio frequency surface coil 102 picks up the resulting relatively weak radio frequency resonance signals. The wireless magnetic resonance energy collection and coil detuning circuit 109 can be tuned to a specific frequency of interest to pick up the resonance signals from the B1 field. These resonance signals from the combined B0 and B1 fields are passed to the processor for processing so that an image representation can be reconstructed for display on a screen (monitor).

[0038] Energy from the radio frequency coil 107 and / or the field gradient coil 110 and / or the body coil 105 can be harvested by the wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning circuit 109. The energy from the radio frequency coil 107, the field gradient coil 110 and the body coil 105 is several orders of magnitude greater than the resonance signal from the human body. The radio frequency surface coil 102 operates on the principle of the Biot-Savart law. The radio frequency surface coil 102 used to receive these resonance signals can support large currents. Therefore, for a variety of reasons (including patient safety and protection of sensitive receiver instruments), the wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning circuit 109 detunes during the transmission phase when strong energy is emitted from the radio frequency coil 107, the field gradient coil 110 and / or the body coil 105.

[0039] Figure 2 is an arrangement of elements for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 In the embodiment, coil segments 201-220 are used to receive Figure 1 The radio frequency coil 107 in the imager realigns the nuclei (spins) with the changed radio frequency energy delivered. The coil segments 201-220 may be, for example, radio frequency surface coils placed on or near the object being imaged. Figure 2 Twenty coil segments 201-220 are shown, but the magnetic resonance imaging system 100 may also include fewer or more such coil segments 201-220 without departing from the scope of the present teachings. As an example, some modern magnetic resonance imaging systems have up to forty-eight (48) different coil segments that employ one or more of the coil types described herein.

[0040] Each coil segment 201-220 is connected to a corresponding detuning circuit 221-240. As already explained, the detuning circuits 221-240 are used to decouple the coil segments 201-220 from energy transmitted by the radio frequency coil(s) 107 during the transmit phase of the magnetic resonance imaging system 100 in particular. That is, the detuning circuits 221-240 are used to ensure that the coil segments 201-220 do not substantially transfer transmit phase energy from the radio frequency coil(s) 107 to the coil segments 201-220. The detuning circuits 221-240 are physically connected to the coil segments 201-220. The detuning circuits 221-240 may even be considered as components of the coil segments 201-220, for example when a particular detuning circuit 221-240 is specifically dedicated to and physically connected to a particular coil segment 201-220 or is otherwise physically integrated with the particular coil segment.

[0041] exist Figure 2In the embodiment, the energy harvesting circuits 241-260 are used to harvest the wireless energy described herein. The energy harvesting circuits 241-260 can store the harvested energy in an energy storage device such as a battery (not shown), or can directly provide the harvested energy for use by, for example, the detuning circuits 221-240. Also in the embodiment, the energy harvesting circuits 241-260 can store the harvested energy in an energy storage device such as a battery (not shown), or can directly provide the harvested energy for use by, for example, the detuning circuits 221-240. Figure 2 In the embodiment of the present invention, power detection circuits 261-280 are provided. The power detection circuits 261-280 detect when power from the (one or more) radio frequency coils 107 is transmitted during the transmission phase. The power detection results from the (one or more) radio frequency coils 107 are used as the basis for signaling, triggering and activating the energy harvesting circuits 241-260 to start harvesting energy, and causing the detuning circuits 221-240 to detune the corresponding coil segments 201-220 of the radio frequency coils.

[0042] certainly, Figure 1 The (one or more) radio frequency coils 107 in the surface coil segments 201-220 can be used for both transmission in the transmit phase and reception in the receive phase. In this case, the detuning circuits 221-240 can detune the (one or more) radio frequency coils 107 in the same manner described herein, but in such embodiments, (one or more) such radio frequency coils 107 present less danger. However, when (one or more) cylindrical radio frequency coils 107 are used for both transmission in the transmit phase and reception in the receive phase, a large portion of the data from the hydrogen nuclei in the object is lost compared to the data that could otherwise be captured by the surface coil segments 201-220. Therefore, it is generally not preferred to use the same (one or more) radio frequency coils 107 for both the transmit phase and the receive phase.

[0043] exist Figure 2 , the connection between the energy harvesting circuits 241-260 and the detuning circuits 221-240 may be a physical connection for transferring power to the detuning circuits 221-240. Additionally, although not shown, the power detection circuits 261-280 may also be connected via signal lines to signal the energy harvesting circuits 241-260 when to harvest energy (and / or particularly when not to harvest energy) and to signal the detuning circuits 221-240 when to detune the coil segments 201-220.

[0044] Figure 2A one-to-one correspondence is shown for the power detection circuits 261-280, the energy harvesting circuits 241-260, the detuning circuits 221-240, and the coil segments 201-220. However, for example, when there is a larger loop size, multiple detuning circuits 221-240 and energy harvesting circuits 241-260 can be used with a single detection circuit 261-280 or multiple detection circuits 261-280. That is, a one-to-one correspondence is not strictly required for the power detection circuits 261-280, the energy harvesting circuits 241-260, the detuning circuits 221-240, and the coil segments 201-220 in each configuration.

[0045] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional side view of another magnetic resonance imaging system for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 In the embodiment, the magnetic resonance imaging system 300 includes (one or more) external magnets 305, (one or more) body coils 306, (one or more) field gradient coils 310 and (one or more) radio frequency coils 307, each of which is connected to Figure 1 However, a plurality of different circuits are provided in the imaging area 308 to replace Figure 1 The wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning circuit 109 in an embodiment of the present invention. The circuit in the imaging area 308 includes (one or more) radio frequency (RF) surface coils 320, (one or more) detuning circuits 330, (one or more) energy harvesting circuits 350, and (one or more) power detection sensors 370.

[0046] The RF surface coil(s) 320 are provided to pick up RF signals emitted from hydrogen atoms in the object being imaged. For this reason, the RF surface coil 320 is shown as the lowest element in the imaging zone 308, it being understood that the RF surface coil(s) 320 will be placed on or near the object being imaged. The detuning circuit(s) 330 are attached to the RF surface coil(s) and are used to detune the RF surface coil(s) 320 during the transmit phase. The detuning circuit(s) 330 have the function of decoupling the RF surface coil 320 from the transmit pulses emitted from the RF coil(s) 307. An explanation of basic detuning of a magnetic resonance imaging system is provided in U.S. Patent No. 8,013,609 to Vartiovaara (September 6, 2011), which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0047] The power detection sensor(s) 370 can be placed anywhere in the imaging area 308. The power detection sensor(s) 370 can also be placed outside the imaging area 308 as long as they are in a position for detecting pulses emitted from the radio frequency coil(s) 307 in the transmit phase. Figure 3 In the embodiment, a power detection sensor 370 and (one or more) energy harvesting circuits 350 are provided to detect and harvest energy from (one or more) RF coils 307, and to power and coordinate with (one or more) detuning circuits 330 to decouple (one or more) RF surface coils 320 during the transmit phase.

[0048] Figure 3 The energy collection circuit(s) 350 in the embodiment are separate from the detuning circuit(s) 330 but have an electrical connection to provide the collected energy to the detuning circuit(s) 330. The power detection sensor(s) 370 detects a pulse from the RF coil(s) 307. The pulse is an operational pulse associated with a (first) preset threshold value, which is used to determine whether the pulse indicates that the RF surface coil(s) 320 is in a transmit phase. The power detection sensor(s) 370 compares the received power with the threshold value and identifies when an operational pulse is transmitted from the RF coil(s) 307 such that the power is above the threshold value. The power detection sensor(s) 370 can also identify when the power is below the threshold value and indicates that no pulse is generated or that the transmission of the pulse has ended. The threshold value for confirming a pulse can be the same threshold value as the threshold value for confirming no pulse, but the threshold values ​​for these two different purposes may also be different. The power detection sensor(s) 370 can be connected to the energy collection circuit(s) 350 via a signal transmission line to coordinate the collection of energy and detune the circuit(s) 330 to coordinate the detuning of the RF surface coil(s) 320.

[0049] The energy harvesting circuit(s) 350 can include a matching circuit for impedance matching within a narrow frequency range so that a specific portion of the energy output from, for example, the RF coil(s) 307 is transferred to the energy harvesting circuit(s) 150. Many types of circuits can be used for impedance matching, including transformers and L networks. As examples of components that can be used, inductors can be used to capture energy, and capacitors can be used to store energy in the energy harvesting circuit(s) 350. Reference is made below to FIG. Fig. 9 To explain a specific circuit example of wireless energy harvesting.

[0050] exist Figure 4, a magnet housing 405 is designated with a hatching pattern as an external structure of the magnetic resonance imaging system 400. A body coil housing 406 is adjacent to the inside of the magnet housing 405. A field gradient coil housing 410 is adjacent to the inside of the body coil housing 406. A radio frequency (RF) coil housing 407 is adjacent to the inside of the field gradient coil housing 410. A control housing 420 is provided on the magnet housing 405 to accommodate, for example, external circuits (e.g., a transceiver).

[0051] exist Figure 4 In the present invention, two power detection sensors 470 are provided within the RF surface coil to detect when the RF coil within the RF coil housing 407 transmits a pulse. The number of power detection sensors 470 is not limited to two, and may alternatively be one, the same number as the RF coils within the RF coil housing 407, or another number without departing from the scope of the present teachings. An energy harvesting circuit 450 is provided to harvest energy from the RF coil(s) within the RF coil housing 407 and / or the field gradient coil(s) within the field gradient coil housing 410 and / or the body coil(s) within the body coil housing 406.

[0052] In addition, the detuning circuit(s) 430 are provided with the RF surface coil(s) 420. Energy collected by the energy harvesting circuit(s) 450 is provided to the detuning circuit(s) 430. As described herein, when collecting energy, the energy can be provided to the detuning circuit(s) 430 in real time or near real time, or can be provided from an energy storage device such as a battery. The detuning circuit(s) 430 detunes the RF coil(s) 420 during the transmit phase based on the detection result of the power detection sensor 470 and using the energy collected by the energy harvesting circuit(s) 450.

[0053] FIG5 is a flow chart showing an operation method for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure. In FIG5, at block S502, a magnetic resonance emission is emitted. The magnetic resonance emission emitted at block S502 is typically from a Figure 1 106 and the field gradient coils 110. However, as explained herein, the radio frequency magnetic resonance transmissions from the radio frequency coils 107 are emitted after magnetic resonance transmissions from the body coils 106 and the field gradient coils 110 have begun in order to align and selectively realign hydrogen nuclei in the imaged object. At block S502, the emitted magnetic resonance transmissions are transmissions from the radio frequency coils 107.

[0054] At block S504, by, for example Figure 3The power detection sensor 370 in the detection module detects the emitted magnetic resonance emission. At block S510, the emitted magnetic resonance emission is compared with a threshold. If the detected magnetic resonance emission is not within the threshold limit (block S510=No), the process ends at block S516 without collecting power. If the detected magnetic resonance emission is within the threshold limit (block S510=Yes), a safety check is performed at block S511.

[0055] The safety check at block S511 may be, for example, a check for a short or open connection in the detuning circuit(s) 330. The safety check at block S511 may also be a check whether the detected magnetic resonance transmit power variation is so large that the second threshold is higher than the (first) threshold used at block S510. Safety checks may also be performed on the magnetic resonance imaging system 100, 300 in general to confirm that all RF surface devices are able to maintain RF power transmission, thereby confirming that RF power is concentrated in the object being imaged and / or that no RF device has failed.

[0056] For example, a detected magnetic resonance transmit power level that is not within a threshold limit may be considered unsafe. If the safety check(s) at block S511 is not passed (block S511=No), the process ends at block S516 without collecting energy. The result of the safety check(s) at block S511 may be to shut down the entire magnetic resonance imaging system 100 that provides energy to one or more of the body coil(s) 306, the radio frequency coil(s) 307, and the field gradient coil(s) 310.

[0057] If the safety check(s) at block S511 are passed (block S511=yes), then at S512, a determination is made whether to detune the radio frequency surface coil(s) 320. The determination at block S512 may be an affirmative determination of whether to detune the radio frequency surface coil(s) 320 based on, for example, whether energy from a previous magnetic resonance transmission is already stored in a storage device. The storage device check at block S512 may be a check of whether the storage device is full or almost full. A full storage device may reflect that power is already available for the detuning circuit(s) 330 and that no additional energy needs to be collected from the new magnetic resonance transmission. If a determination is made at block S512 not to detune it (block S512=no), then the process ends at block S516 without collecting energy.

[0058] If a determination is made at box S512 to detune the radio frequency surface coil(s) 320 (box S512=yes), then at box S515 magnetic resonance energy is collected from the current magnetic resonance transmission. At box S520, a determination is made whether to store or (immediately) use the collected energy. If it is determined at box S520 to use the collected energy immediately, then at box S522, the collected energy is used to detune the radio frequency surface coil(s) 320 without storing the collected energy in a battery or other intermediate or long-term energy storage device. If it is determined at box S520 to store the collected energy, then at box S526 the energy is stored in the energy storage device until a detuning signal is received later at box S530. When the detuning signal is received at box S530, the energy from the battery is used to detune the radio frequency surface coil(s) 320 at box S522.

[0059] Figure 6 is a circuit diagram for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6 In the embodiment, the magnetic resonance imaging system includes a radio frequency surface coil 610 that receives radio frequency signals from, for example, hydrogen nuclei of water molecules during a receive phase. The radio frequency surface coil 610 includes elements of a detuning circuit having an inductor 696 and a capacitor 698. When the radio frequency coil(s) 107 or 307 are transmitting pulses, the wireless power sensor 650 detects energy from the radio frequency coil(s) 107 or 307 (not shown) and synchronizes with the wireless energy harvesting circuit 660 to harvest energy from the radio frequency coil(s) 107 or 307.

[0060] exist Figure 6 The harvested energy can be used to directly power circuits associated with the magnetic resonance imaging system 100, or can be stored in an energy storage device 670, such as a battery. Figure 6 A signal source (DC) or energy storage device 670 is shown in to represent the options of storing the harvested energy or directly using the harvested energy to power the circuit. Capacitor 698 and inductor 696 act as a detuning circuit for the RF coil 610.

[0061] exist Figure 6In the embodiment of the present invention, a wireless power sensor 650 and a wireless energy harvesting circuit 660 are placed on each channel element of the radio frequency surface coil 610 near the detuning circuit. The wireless power sensor 650 and the wireless energy harvesting circuit 660 can be connected to an energy storage device 670 to switch between collecting energy and shutting down. The energy storage device 670 can be, for example, a battery and can represent a backup. When the magnetic resonance imaging system is in the transmit mode, energy is detected, collected and reused to charge the energy storage device 670 or to power the detuning circuit to turn it on. In the receive mode, the detuning circuit, the wireless power sensor 650 and the wireless energy harvesting circuit 660 are all turned off.

[0062] Figure 7 is a timing diagram of wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 In FIG. 1 , six timing sequences are shown for the operations of transmitting, detecting, determining (one or more times), collecting, and detuning. Figure 7 The most important information to be derived from is the relative timing between each operation in any sequence. However, wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning are not limited to Figure 7 The timing or sequence in .

[0063] During transmit operation, operating pulses are emitted from the radio frequency coil(s) 107 in a transmit phase. Figure 7 All other four operations shown in FIG5 occur entirely or substantially entirely during the time when the operating pulse is emitted. The operating pulse is detected in the detection operation at or very close to the very beginning of the transmission operation. Decisions such as the safety check (block S511) and / or the detuning decision (block S512) are made in the decision operation that begins immediately after the detection operation. The detection operation and the decision operation occur entirely during the transmission operation.

[0064] After the determination operation is complete (e.g., once the collection operation is authorized), the collection operation begins. The collection operation is completely or nearly completely consistent with the detuning operation, wherein energy is collected and used to detune the RF surface coil(s) 320. When, for example, the collected energy is stored in an energy storage device such as a battery, the timing of the detuning operation can be offset from the timing of the collection operation, while energy from the battery is used for the detuning operation.

[0065] Figure 8 is another circuit diagram for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8The circuit diagram in is used for a power detection circuit, for example, a power detection circuit 261-280, a power detection sensor 370 or 470, and / or a wireless power sensor 650. The detector D1 881 can be, for example, a Schottky diode or similar detector element with a very low V1. When an operating pulse from (one or more) radio frequency coils 107 or 307 is detected, the output of the detector D1 881 is amplified by an N-stage operational amplifier 890 to generate a detection signal. The N-stage operational amplifier 890 includes a series of operational amplifiers 891, 892, 893 to 89N to amplify the output of the detector D1 881, thereby generating a detection signal output from the N-stage operational amplifier 890.

[0066] Fig. 9 is another circuit diagram for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 9 The circuit arrangement in FIG. 1 includes a detuning circuit 980, which includes an inductor 981, a capacitor 982, and two diodes D1 983 and D2 984. The two diodes D1 983 and 984 are anti-parallel diodes that act as switches for the capacitor 982. The energy collected by the inductor L2 is used to detune the RF surface coil including the detuning circuit 980, but in Fig. 9 The RF surface coil is not shown in FIG. The detuning circuit 980 wirelessly receives the harvested energy from the matching circuit 932 via the inductor 935 and the inductor 982. Although Fig. 9 A dual inductor design is shown in , but other types of coupling devices based on inductive coupling can also be used.

[0067] exist Fig. 9 , a logic signal is received by the detuning circuit 980 to switch the anti-parallel diodes D1 983 and D2 984. Fig. 9 984, but the use of such diodes is merely representative, and other electrical components and / or circuits can be used in place of the parallel diodes D1 983 and D2 984. The logic signal is received from the RF power detection circuit 950 via the power management circuit 910, and the logic signal is received based on the power detection circuit 950 detecting an operating pulse from the RF coil(s) 107 or 307. Fig. 9 The energy harvesting circuit in includes a matching circuit 932 for impedance matching within a frequency range so as to transmit a specific portion of the energy output from the energy storage device 911 via the rectifier circuit 912 and the inductors 935 , 981 .

[0068] Fig.10 is another circuit diagram for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.10 , the detuning circuit 980 is shown in the background of the surface coil, but without the Fig. 9 The power management circuit 910 and the RF power detection circuit 950 are provided.

[0069] like Fig.10 As shown, the surface coil includes capacitors C1 1082, C2 1088, C3 1089, and C3 1091. The detuning circuit 1080 is a decoupler circuit that includes an inductor L2 1081, a capacitor C1 1082, and two anti-parallel diodes D1 1083 and D2 1084. Fig.10 The detuning circuit 1080 in Fig. 9 The detuning circuit 980 in FIG. 1 is similar or identical to that in FIG. 1 , and thus a repeated description is omitted.

[0070] exist Fig.10 , anti-parallel diodes D1 1083 and D2 1084 are again used as switches to turn the detuning circuit 1080 on and off based on a received command signal from, for example, a wireless power detector. Fig.10 The surface coil in the outputs the data to the matching circuit 1095 and finally to the low noise amplifier (LNA) 1099. The low noise amplifier 1099 provides an output via a coaxial line. The output from the low noise amplifier 1099 is Fig.10 The amplified output of the received radio frequency signal received by the surface coil in the imaged object. The received radio frequency signal comes from the hydrogen nuclei of water molecules in the imaged object and is received during the receive phase of the cycle.

[0071] As explained herein, the detuning circuit 1080 and Fig.10 The surface coils in are integrated together and share capacitor C1 1082. The detuning circuit 1080 is selectively turned on by an external signal from, for example, a wireless power detector. The detuning circuit 1080 receives power from a battery or directly receives power from a wireless energy harvesting circuit via an inductor L2 1081.

[0072] Fig.11 An exemplary general purpose computer system including an instruction set for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Fig.11 In the embodiment of the present invention, the exemplary general purpose computer system 1100 represents a device that uses a processor to perform logical operations for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning as described herein. The general purpose computer system 1100 can be used, for example, to Fig.10The amplified data is received at the coaxial output of the receiver and a program may be executed to generate an image or video representation. Alternatively, the general purpose computer system 1100 may be used to control a transmission sequence for the magnetic resonance imaging system 100 or 300, including safety features that may be logically necessary for, for example, the receiver to be used by the receiver. Figure 1-4 and Figure 6-10 The physical safety features provided by the wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning circuit shown in are redundant.

[0073] The computer system 1100 can include an instruction set that can be executed to cause the computer system 1100 to perform any one or more of the methods or computer-based functions disclosed herein. The computer system 1100 can be used as a standalone device, or can be connected to other computer systems or peripheral devices, for example, using a network 1101. The computer system 1100 can be connected, for example, via Fig.10 The coaxial output or via Figure 4 The control housing 420 is connected.

[0074] In a networked deployment, the computer system 1100 can be operated or used as a client user computer in a server-client user network environment with the capacity of a server, or as a peer computer system in a peer (or distributed) network environment. The computer system 1100 can also be implemented as a variety of devices or incorporated into a variety of devices, such as a fixed computer, a mobile computer, a personal computer (PC), a laptop computer, a tablet computer, or any other machine, which can run a (sequential or other) instruction set specifying the action to be taken by the machine. The computer system 1100 can be incorporated into or incorporated into a specific device as a specific device, which is then in an integrated system including additional devices. In a specific embodiment, the computer system 1100 can be implemented using an electronic device that provides audio, video or data communication. In addition, although a single computer system 1100 is illustrated, the term "system" should also be considered to include any collection of systems or subsystems that run one or more instruction sets to perform one or more computer functions individually or jointly.

[0075] like Fig.11As shown, the computer system 1100 includes a processor 1110. The processor 1110 for the computer system 1100 may include a dedicated memory, such as a random access memory (RAM) and / or a read-only memory (ROM), which is tangible and non-transient. As used herein, the term "non-transient" should not be interpreted as a permanent state characteristic, but should be interpreted as a state characteristic that will last for a period of time. The term "non-transient" explicitly negates fleeting characteristics, such as the characteristics of a specific carrier or signal or other forms of characteristics that only exist temporarily at any time and anywhere. The processor is a product and / or a machine component. The processor for the computer system 1100 is configured to run software instructions in order to perform the functions described in various embodiments as described herein. The processor for the computer system 1100 may be a general-purpose processor, or may be part of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The processor for the computer system 1100 may also be a microprocessor, a microcomputer, a processor chip, a controller, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a state machine, or a programmable logic device. The processor for computer system 1100 may also be a logic circuit, including a programmable gate array (PGA) such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other types of circuits including discrete gates and / or transistor logic. The processor for computer system 1100 may be a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or both. In addition, any processor described herein may include multiple processors, parallel processors, or both. Multiple processors may be included in a single device or multiple devices, or coupled to a single device or multiple devices.

[0076] In addition, the computer system 1100 includes a main memory 1120 and a static memory 1130, which can communicate with each other via a bus 1108. The memory described herein is a tangible storage medium capable of storing data and executable instructions, and is non-transient during the time when the instructions are stored in the memory. As used herein, the term "non-transient" should not be interpreted as a permanent state characteristic, but should be interpreted as a state characteristic that will last for a period of time. The term "non-transient" explicitly negates fleeting characteristics, such as characteristics of a specific carrier or signal or other forms of characteristics that only exist temporarily at any time and anywhere. The memory described herein is a product and / or a machine component. The memory described herein is a computer-readable medium from which a computer can read data and executable instructions. The memory described herein can be a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a flash memory, an electrically programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a register, a hard disk, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. The memory may be volatile or non-volatile, secure and / or encrypted, unsecure and / or unencrypted.

[0077] As shown, the computer system 1100 may also include a video display unit 1150, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a flat panel display, a solid state display, or a cathode ray tube (CRT). In addition, the computer system 1100 may include an input device 1160 (e.g., a keyboard / virtual keyboard or a touch-sensitive input screen or a voice input with voice recognition) and a cursor control device 1170 (e.g., a mouse or a touch-sensitive input screen or board). The computer system 1100 may also include a signal generating device 1190 (e.g., a speaker or a remote control) and a network interface device 1140.

[0078] In alternative embodiments, dedicated hardware implementations (e.g., application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic arrays, and other hardware components) can be constructed to implement one or more of the methods described herein. One or more embodiments described herein can use two or more specific interconnected hardware modules or devices to implement functions, and the two or more specific interconnected hardware modules or devices have related control and data signals that can communicate between and through the modules. Therefore, the present disclosure includes software, firmware, and hardware implementations. Nothing in this application should be interpreted as being implemented or implementable using only software rather than hardware such as tangible non-transient processors and / or memories.

[0079] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a hardware computer system running a software program can be used to implement the methods described herein. In addition, in an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment, the implementation can include distributed processing, component / object distributed processing, and parallel processing. Virtual computer system processing can be configured to implement one or more of the methods or functions described herein, and the processor described herein can be used to support a virtual processing environment.

[0080] Fig.12 is a sequence diagram for wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning according to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.12 , the sending / receiving cycle is shown. Fig.12 The transmit / receive cycle in can be represented by Fig.11 The computer system 1100 shown controls the Fig.12 , the transmit periods T2, T6, T10, T14 correspond to the transmission of a maximum of about 20 microtesla from the RF coil(s) 107 or 307 during the transmit phase. The receive periods T4, T8, T12, T16 correspond to the reception of a maximum of about ˜10 picotesla from the hydrogen nuclei of water molecules during the receive phase.

[0081] exist Fig.12 , the post-receive time periods T1, T5, T9, T13 have a minimum value of about 100 microseconds. The post-transmit time periods T3, T7, T11, T15 have a minimum value of about 10 microseconds. It should be clear that the post-transmit time period is significantly shorter than the post-receive time period. This may be due to the need to start the receive operation quickly after the transmit operation, because the radio frequency signal from the excited hydrogen nuclei of the water molecules in the imaged object is relatively weak from the beginning.

[0082] Thus, wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning enable detuning of coils such as the radio frequency surface coil 320 without using a DC cable connected to the main power supply of the magnetic resonance imaging system 100, 300. Wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning enable reuse of energy from coil transmissions in the transmit phase. Although not described in detail herein, the harvesting of energy is not sufficient to substantially interfere with the transmission of energy from the radio frequency coil(s) 107, 307. The harvesting of energy may, for example, involve capturing less than 5% or even less than 1% of the energy emitted by the radio frequency coil(s) 107, 307 in the transmit phase.

[0083] Although wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning have been described with reference to several exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the words that have been used are words of description and illustration, rather than words of limitation. Changes may be made within the scope of the claims, as presently stated and amended, without departing from the scope and spirit of the various aspects of wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning. Although wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning have been described with reference to specific units, materials, and embodiments, wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning are not intended to be limited to the details disclosed; rather, wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning extend to all functionally equivalent structures, methods, and uses, such as all functionally equivalent structures, methods, and uses within the scope of the claims.

[0084] For example, the present disclosure primarily describes placing the power detection circuitry within the imaging zone 108, 308 along with other circuitry of the wireless magnetic resonance energy harvesting and coil detuning system. However, the power detection circuitry 261-280 or the power sensor 370 can be placed outside the imaging zone, such as toward the top of the bore and near the RF coil(s) 107, 307, without departing from the scope of the present teachings. Furthermore, the power detection circuitry 261-280 can be integrated with the RF coil(s) 107, 307, such that the power detection itself need not be performed wirelessly even when energy harvesting is performed wirelessly.

[0085] Additionally, the present disclosure primarily describes safety checks that are performed before energy harvesting or detuning is performed. However, safety checks may be performed even while energy is being harvested and / or while detuning is being performed. For example, safety checks may include real-time or near real-time monitoring of the harvested energy to determine when too much energy has been harvested and the magnetic resonance imaging system should be shut down.

[0086] Furthermore, the present disclosure primarily describes energy storage devices in terms of batteries. However, other forms of energy storage devices can be used, even on a short-term basis. For example, superconductors or other forms of energy storage devices can be used to store the collected energy without departing from the teachings of the present application.

[0087] The description of the embodiments described herein is intended to provide a general understanding of the structures of various embodiments. These descriptions are not intended to be used as a complete description of all elements and features of the disclosure described herein. After reading the disclosure, many other embodiments are apparent to those skilled in the art. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived from the disclosure so that structural and logical replacements and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In addition, the illustrations are merely representative and may not be drawn to scale. Certain proportions in the illustrations may be exaggerated, while other proportions may be minimized. Therefore, the disclosure and the accompanying drawings should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive.

[0088] One or more embodiments of the present disclosure may be referred to herein individually and / or collectively as the term "invention", which is for convenience only and is not intended to voluntarily limit the scope of the present application to any particular invention, inventive concept, or embodiment thereof. In addition, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that any subsequent arrangement designed to achieve the same or similar purpose may replace the specific embodiments shown. The present disclosure is intended to cover any and all subsequent adjustments or changes of the various embodiments. After reading this specification, the combination of the above-mentioned embodiments and other embodiments not specifically described herein will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0089] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a magnetic resonance system includes a wireless power detection sensor and a wireless energy harvesting circuit. The wireless power detection sensor detects magnetic resonance emission. The wireless energy harvesting circuit harvests energy from the magnetic resonance emission based on the wireless power detection sensor detecting the magnetic resonance emission.

[0090] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the wireless power detection sensor detects when magnetic resonance emission exceeds a threshold value. The wireless power detection sensor generates a signal based on detecting that the magnetic resonance emission reaches the threshold value and sends the signal to the wireless energy harvesting circuit.

[0091] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the threshold is related to an operation pulse from the magnetic resonance system.When the magnetic resonance system generates the operation pulse in a transmission phase, the wireless energy harvesting circuit harvests energy from the magnetic resonance transmission.

[0092] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the threshold is related to an operation pulse of the magnetic resonance system. When the magnetic resonance system does not generate the operation pulse in a receiving phase, the wireless energy harvesting circuit does not harvest energy from the magnetic resonance transmission.

[0093] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the magnetic resonance system further comprises a magnetic coil element and a detuning circuit. The magnetic coil element is used to generate magnetic resonance power for the magnetic resonance transmission. The detuning circuit uses the collected energy from the wireless energy harvesting circuit to detune at least one radio frequency coil element of the magnetic resonance system.

[0094] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the magnetic resonance system further includes a storage device that stores energy from the harvested energy.

[0095] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, when the magnetic resonance system generates an operation pulse detected by the wireless power detection sensor, the magnetic resonance system stores energy from the harvested energy in the storage device.

[0096] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, when the magnetic resonance system does not generate operating pulses, both the detuning circuit and the wireless energy harvesting circuit are turned off.

[0097] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the magnetic resonance system includes a magnetic resonance imaging system for generating an image of a subject within the magnetic coil element.

[0098] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, energy from the harvested energy is used by the detuning circuit to detune the magnetic coil elements for a single continuous period when generating the magnetic resonance power.

[0099] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the magnetic resonance system detects the rate at which the wireless energy harvesting circuit harvests energy and compares the detected rate with a predetermined threshold. The magnetic resonance system is configured to stop magnetic resonance transmission when the detected rate exceeds the predetermined threshold.

[0100] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the detuning circuit includes a switch. The magnetic resonance system detects when the switch in the detuning circuit indicates one of a short circuit and an open circuit. The magnetic resonance system is configured to stop magnetic resonance transmission based on detecting the short circuit or the open circuit.

[0101] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a method for operating a magnetic resonance system includes detecting magnetic resonance transmission by a wireless power detection sensor. A wireless energy harvesting circuit harvests energy from the magnetic resonance transmission based on the wireless power detection sensor detecting the magnetic resonance transmission.

[0102] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the method includes determining whether to detune a magnetic coil element used to generate magnetic resonance power for the magnetic resonance transmission during the magnetic resonance transmission. The method also includes selectively detuning the magnetic coil element based on the determination and using the harvested energy from the wireless energy harvesting circuit.

[0103] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the method further includes confirming that the magnetic resonance transmission has stopped. The selective detuning is performed only after confirming that the magnetic resonance transmission has stopped.

[0104] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the method further comprises performing a predetermined safety check on the magnetic resonance system. The collecting is performed based on passing the predetermined safety check.

[0105] As described herein, energy is wirelessly collected during the transmit pulse of a magnetic resonance sequence. The energy is used to power other circuits, including, for example, a detuning circuit that detunes a radio frequency coil and / or a power detection sensor that detects the transmit pulse. The energy collection circuit provides operating voltage to the power detection sensor and the detuning circuit. The energy collection circuit and the power detection sensor can be provided separately for each channel on the field gradient coil of the magnetic resonance imaging system. As a result, it is possible to automate power collection and integrate power collection with power and control management of circuits and sensors in the magnetic resonance imaging system.

[0106] The Abstract of the present disclosure is provided to comply with 37 CFR §1.72(b) and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together or described in a single embodiment for the purpose of simplifying the present disclosure. This disclosure should not be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than those expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the claims, the inventive subject matter may involve less than all the features of any of the disclosed embodiments. Therefore, the claims are incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim itself defining a separately claimed subject matter.

[0107] The foregoing description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the concepts described in the present disclosure. As such, the subject matter disclosed above should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive, and the claims are intended to cover all such modifications, enhancements, and other embodiments that fall within the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, to the maximum extent permitted by law, the scope of the present disclosure will be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the claims and their equivalents, and shall not be limited or restricted by the foregoing detailed description.

Claims

1. A magnetic resonance system, wherein: The one or more coils of the magnetic resonance system are configured to deliver magnetic resonance transmissions, the magnetic resonance system comprising: a wireless power detection sensor configured to detect a power level of the magnetic resonance transmission from the one or more coils of the magnetic resonance system; and A wireless energy harvesting circuit is configured to harvest energy from the magnetic resonance transmission when a detected power level of the magnetic resonance transmission exceeds a threshold power indicating that the one or more coils are in a transmit phase.

2. The magnetic resonance system according to claim 1, in, The wireless power detection sensor is configured to detect when the power level of the magnetic resonance transmission exceeds the threshold power, and The wireless power detection sensor is configured to generate a signal based on detecting that the magnetic resonance emission reaches the threshold and send the signal to the wireless energy harvesting circuit.

3. The magnetic resonance system according to claim 2, in, The threshold power is associated with an operating pulse from the magnetic resonance system, and Wherein, when the magnetic resonance system generates the operating pulse in the transmission phase, the wireless energy collection circuit collects energy from the magnetic resonance transmission.

4. The magnetic resonance system according to claim 2, in, The threshold power is associated with an operating pulse from the magnetic resonance system, and Wherein, when the magnetic resonance system does not generate the operation pulse in the receiving phase, the wireless energy harvesting circuit does not harvest energy from the magnetic resonance transmission.

5. The magnetic resonance system according to claim 1, further comprising: a magnetic coil element configured to generate magnetic resonance power for said magnetic resonance transmission; as well as A detuning circuit is configured to use the harvested energy to detune the magnetic coil element.

6. The magnetic resonance system according to claim 5, further comprising: A storage device is used to store the harvested energy.

7. The magnetic resonance system according to claim 6, in, When the magnetic resonance system generates an operating pulse detected by the wireless power detection sensor, the magnetic resonance system stores the harvested energy in the storage device.

8. The magnetic resonance system according to claim 7, in, When the magnetic resonance system is not generating operating pulses, both the detuning circuit and the wireless energy harvesting circuit are turned off.

9. The magnetic resonance system according to claim 5, in, Energy from the harvested energy is used by the detuning circuit to detune the magnetic coil elements for a single continuous period when generating the magnetic resonance power.

10. The magnetic resonance system according to claim 1, in, The magnetic resonance system is configured to detect a rate at which the wireless energy harvesting circuit harvests energy and compare the detected rate with a predetermined threshold, and Wherein, the magnetic resonance system is configured to stop magnetic resonance transmission when the detected rate exceeds the predetermined threshold.

11. The magnetic resonance system according to claim 5, in, The detuning circuit comprises a switch, wherein the magnetic resonance system detects when the switch in the detuning circuit indicates one of a short circuit and an open circuit, and The magnetic resonance system is configured to stop magnetic resonance transmission based on detecting a short circuit or an open circuit.

12. A method for operating a magnetic resonance system, wherein: The one or more coils of the magnetic resonance system are configured to deliver magnetic resonance transmissions, the method comprising: detecting, by a wireless power detection sensor, a power level of the magnetic resonance transmission from the one or more coils of the magnetic resonance system; and Energy is harvested from the magnetic resonance transmission by a wireless energy harvesting circuit when a detected power level of the magnetic resonance transmission exceeds a threshold power indicating that the one or more coils are in a transmit phase.

13. The operating method according to claim 12, further comprising: determining whether to detune magnetic coil elements used to generate magnetic resonance power for the magnetic resonance transmission during the magnetic resonance transmission; and The magnetic coil element is selectively detuned based on the determination and using harvested energy from the wireless energy harvesting circuit.

14. The operating method according to claim 13, further comprising: confirming that the magnetic resonance emission has stopped, Therein, the selective detuning is performed only after it is confirmed that the magnetic resonance transmission has stopped.

15. The operating method according to claim 12, further comprising: performing a predetermined safety check on the magnetic resonance system, Wherein, the collecting is performed based on passing the predetermined security check.

Images