Automatic positioning of antenna connectors for magnetic resonance imaging

Abstract

The present invention provides a medical instrument (100, 400, 500, 600, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400) comprising a magnetic resonance imaging system. The medical instrument comprises a radio frequency system (116) configured to send and receive radio frequency signals to acquire magnetic resonance imaging data (302). The radio frequency system is configured to be connected to a magnetic resonance imaging antenna (114). The medical instrument further comprises a subject support (120) configured to support at least a portion of a subject (118) in an imaging region (108) of the magnetic resonance imaging system. The subject support comprises an antenna connector (124) configured to be connected to the magnetic resonance imaging antenna. The radio frequency system is configured to be connected to the magnetic resonance imaging antenna via the antenna connector. The subject support comprises a remotely controllable actuator (126) configured to translate the antenna connector along a path (126) to a connector position (154, 126). The medical instrument further comprises a memory (148) comprising machine executable instructions (150). The medical instrument also includes a processor (144) for controlling the magnetic resonance imaging system. Execution of the machine executable instructions causes the processor to: receive (350) the connector position (154); and control (352) the remotely controllable actuator to move the antenna connector along the path to the connector position (128).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to magnetic resonance imaging, and in particular to a radio frequency system for magnetic resonance imaging. Background Art

[0002] Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners use a large static magnetic field to align the nuclear spins of atoms as part of the process of producing images of the patient's body. This large static magnetic field is called the B0 field or main field. The magnetic spins of the material tend to align in the B0 field. Radio frequency signals can be used to manipulate the orientation of the spins and cause them to precess, causing them to emit their own radio frequency signals. To send and receive these radio frequency signals, a magnetic resonance imaging antenna (or coil) is used. A large fixed coil can be used, or a smaller coil placed on or around the subject can be used.

[0003] U.S. patent application publication US 2017 / 0003791 discloses a patient couch for a magnetic resonance tomography system, and provides a magnetic resonance tomography system. The patient couch includes a feeding facility for radio frequency energy, and the feeding device has multiple conductive paths for feeding radio frequency energy. The patient couch also includes multiple plug-in connectors and a distribution structure, the multiple plug-in connectors are used for local coils with transmitting coils, and the distribution structure is used to distribute radio frequency energy from the feeding facility to the plug-in connectors. U.S. patent application US 2007 / 0035301 discloses a coil support unit for an MRI device. This known coil support includes a port for connecting the RF coil to a signal cable. The port can slide along the body axis of the top plate (of the bed) through a moving unit to remain in the center of the magnetic field. Summary of the invention

[0004] The invention provides a medical apparatus, a computer program product and a method in the independent claims. Embodiments are given in the dependent claims.

[0005] Embodiments can facilitate the use of a magnetic resonance imaging antenna that can be placed on or around an object by having a remotely controllable actuator that positions an antenna connector along a path of an object support. A processor that controls a medical instrument that includes a magnetic resonance imaging system receives a connector position and then controls the remotely controllable actuator to move the antenna connector to the connector position. This can provide several advantages. This can reduce the chance of improper use of the magnetic resonance imaging antenna. Positioning the antenna connector at a specific connector position can reduce the chance of an unskilled operator incorrectly placing the antenna. This can also make the use of the magnetic resonance imaging antenna more convenient. In some examples, this can reduce the need for cable management and can automate the placement of the antenna connector.

[0006] In one aspect, the present invention provides a medical instrument including a magnetic resonance imaging system. The medical instrument also includes a radio frequency system configured to acquire magnetic resonance imaging data from an imaging zone of the magnetic resonance imaging system. The radio frequency system is configured to send and receive radio frequency signals to acquire magnetic resonance imaging data. The radio frequency system is configured to be connected to a magnetic resonance imaging antenna. In some examples, the magnetic resonance imaging antenna is a surface coil or other coil that can be attached to or placed on an object. The medical instrument also includes an object support configured to support at least a portion of an object in the imaging zone of the magnetic resonance imaging system. The object support includes an antenna connector configured to be connected to the magnetic resonance imaging antenna. In some examples, the antenna connector can additionally provide connections for other devices, such as but not limited to: an ECG sensor, a breathing sensor, a motion sensor, a patient feedback sensor, or other sensors.

[0007] The radio frequency system is configured to be connected to the magnetic resonance imaging antenna via the antenna connector. The object support includes a remotely controllable actuator configured to translate the antenna connector along a path to a connector position. In different examples, the remotely controllable actuator can take different forms. For example, the remotely controllable actuator can be a system having a pulley, a gear, a stepper motor, a pneumatic device, or a hydraulic device, which is used to move the antenna connector along a path. The medical instrument also includes a memory, which includes machine executable instructions. The medical instrument also includes a processor for controlling the magnetic resonance imaging system. Execution of the machine executable instructions causes the processor to receive a connector position. Execution of the machine executable instructions also causes the processor to control the remotely controllable actuator to move the antenna connector along the path to the connector position.

[0008] This embodiment can be advantageous because a connector position can be selected and then a remotely controllable actuator can be remotely moved to that position. This can achieve various things, such as ensuring that the connector is placed in an optimal position relative to the magnetic resonance imaging antenna. This can, for example, achieve a reduction in the length of the cable or connector for the magnetic resonance imaging antenna, and can also help eliminate the possibility of misplacing the magnetic resonance imaging antenna or placing it in the wrong position.

[0009] In another embodiment, the object support includes an NFC detector configured to receive an NFC signal from the magnetic resonance imaging antenna. Execution of the machine executable instructions further causes the processor to determine the connection location using, at least in part, the NFC signal. NFC stands for Near Field Communication. This embodiment may be beneficial because it may enable an efficient and cost-effective means to identify the location of a magnetic resonance imaging antenna after placing the magnetic resonance imaging antenna on or around an object.

[0010] In another embodiment, the magnetic resonance imaging antenna comprises an NFC transmitter and / or receiver enabling the NFC detector to pick up the NFC signal.

[0011] In another embodiment, the medical instrument further comprises a camera configured to provide a camera image comprising the object support and the position of the object on the support. Execution of the machine executable instructions further causes the processor to use the camera image to determine the connector position. This embodiment may be beneficial because it provides a means of determining the connector position using non-contact means.

[0012] In another embodiment, the processor is configured to register an antenna position model to the camera image. For example, if a surface coil or other coil is placed on or around an object, the antenna position model can be used to determine the position of the magnetic resonance imaging antenna. The determination of the connector position using the camera image is at least partially performed using the registration of the antenna position model. For example, the antenna position model can have a mapping that indicates what the connector position should be for various positions of the magnetic resonance imaging antenna. The antenna position model can be used to locate the magnetic resonance imaging antenna in the image and then determine the position of the magnetic resonance imaging antenna.

[0013] In another embodiment, the processor is configured to register an object model to the camera image. The determination of the connector position using the camera image is performed at least in part using the registration of the object model. In this example, a camera can be used to detect an object placed on an object support. The object model can then be registered and the position of the object relative to the object support can then be known. This can be used to determine the connector position before placing the magnetic resonance imaging antenna on or around the object. This can be beneficial because it can enable the connector position to be placed in a position that helps an operator place the magnetic resonance imaging antenna in the correct position. For example, if the magnetic resonance imaging antenna has a short cable, the pre-placement of the connector position can eliminate the possibility of placing the magnetic resonance imaging antenna in the wrong position.

[0014] In another embodiment, the execution of the machine executable instructions further causes the processor to receive a magnetic resonance imaging region of interest selection. The connector position is determined at least in part using the MRI region of interest selection and the registration of the object model. For example, for a particular position of an object, an MRI region of interest can be superimposed on the registered object model. This can then be used to infer the placement position of a magnetic resonance imaging antenna. This can further assist in properly placing the magnetic resonance imaging antenna on the object.

[0015] In another embodiment, the object support further comprises a linear position selector distributed along the path. Execution of the machine executable instructions further causes the processor to receive a selected position from the linear position selector. The connector position is at least partially determined using the selected position. This embodiment can be beneficial because an operator can indicate where a preferred position for an antenna connector is.

[0016] In another embodiment, the linear position selector is a linear array of buttons. This is a collection of buttons placed sequentially along a path, and pressing one of the buttons indicates a possible or preferred connector position. The linear array of buttons may also be referred to as radio buttons.

[0017] In another embodiment, the linear position selector is a touch sensor. For example, one or more touch sensors are distributed along the path, and the operator only needs to touch the touch sensor at the appropriate position to indicate the connector position.

[0018] In another embodiment, the medical instrument also includes a radiotherapy system configured to irradiate a target area. The target area is within the imaging area. The execution of the machine executable instructions also causes the processor to receive radiotherapy instructions configured to control the radiotherapy system to irradiate the target area. The execution of the machine executable instructions also causes the processor to use the radiotherapy instructions to determine a beam path. The execution of the machine executable instructions also causes the processor to modify the connector position to avoid the beam path. The execution of the machine executable instructions also causes the processor to use the radiotherapy instructions to control the radiotherapy system to irradiate the target area. This embodiment can be beneficial because it can provide a means to help improve the quality of radiotherapy.

[0019] During radiation therapy, magnetic resonance images acquired by a magnetic resonance imaging system may be used to guide the radiation therapy. Magnetic resonance imaging may also be used to register the radiation therapy instructions to the position of the subject.

[0020] The radiotherapy system can be, for example, a LINAC system, a gamma ray system, an X-ray beam system, or other radiotherapy system. In some examples, the radiotherapy system can also be a nuclear medicine imaging system. For example, a radiation source or a tracer has been placed in the target area. The beam path can be the radiation emitted by the radiation source or the tracer, and then the antenna connector can be placed to reduce the obstruction of the emitted radiation. The nuclear medicine imaging system can include a positron emission tomography (PET) system and a single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT).

[0021] In another embodiment, the medical instrument comprises the magnetic resonance imaging antenna.

[0022] In another embodiment, the magnetic resonance imaging antenna includes an RF cable having an antenna plug. The antenna plug is configured to couple with the antenna connector. The antenna plug includes any of the following: an MRI antenna preamplifier, a digital-to-analog converter, an analog-to-digital converter, and a combination thereof. This can be beneficial because components of the magnetic resonance imaging antenna that may increase the size and weight of the antenna have been moved to the antenna plug.

[0023] The antenna connector may provide a standard interface for use with the antenna plug, for example, it may provide DC power and a digital transmission path. For example, the antenna plug may communicate with the rest of the magnetic resonance imaging system via an optical digital telecommunication path or a wireless path. The antenna connector may also provide DC power to power various electronic components contained within the antenna plug.

[0024] In another embodiment, the radio frequency system includes coil electronics within the object support. The coil electronics are configured to move with the antenna connector. The coil electronics include any of the following: an MRI antenna preamplifier, a digital-to-analog converter, an analog-to-digital converter, and combinations thereof. In this embodiment, active components that are typically placed on a magnetic resonance imaging antenna are placed within the object support. This can be achieved by the fact that a movable connector enables the use of very short cables.

[0025] In another embodiment, the antenna connector includes an RF system transceiver configured to form a wireless connection with the magnetic resonance imaging antenna. Execution of the machine executable instructions further causes the processor to determine a position of the magnetic resonance imaging antenna using, at least in part, the RF system transceiver. Execution of the machine executable instructions further causes the processor to determine the connector position using the position of the magnetic resonance imaging antenna. This embodiment may be beneficial because it may provide a cost-effective means to implement automatic connector positioning.

[0026] In another embodiment, the medical instrument further comprises the magnetic resonance imaging antenna. The magnetic resonance imaging antenna further comprises an antenna transceiver configured to form the wireless connection with the RF system transceiver. The antenna transceiver can provide positioning by signal strength when moving the antenna connector, or by acting as a repeater, for example.

[0027] The magnetic resonance imaging antenna in this embodiment may, for example, have a battery. In this case, the magnetic resonance antenna may include an analog-to-digital converter, a digital-to-analog converter and / or a preamplifier.

[0028] In another embodiment the object support is detachable from the magnetic resonance imaging system.

[0029] In another embodiment, the memory further comprises pulse sequence instructions, the pulse sequence instructions being configured to acquire magnetic resonance imaging data according to a magnetic resonance imaging protocol. The execution of the machine executable instructions further causes the processor to control the magnetic resonance imaging system to acquire the magnetic resonance imaging data using the pulse sequence commands. The execution of the machine executable instructions further causes the processor to reconstruct a magnetic resonance image based on the magnetic resonance imaging data.

[0030] In another embodiment the connection between the magnetic resonance imaging antenna and the magnetic resonance imaging system comprises an optical connection.

[0031] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of operating a medical instrument. The medical instrument includes a magnetic resonance imaging system. The medical instrument also includes a radio frequency system configured to acquire magnetic resonance imaging data from an imaging region of the magnetic resonance imaging system. The radio frequency system is configured to send and receive radio frequency signals to acquire the magnetic resonance imaging data. The radio frequency system is configured to be connected to a magnetic resonance imaging antenna. The medical instrument also includes an object support configured to support at least a portion of an object in the imaging region of the magnetic resonance imaging system.

[0032] The subject support includes an antenna connector configured to be connected to the magnetic resonance imaging antenna. The radio frequency system is configured to be connected to the magnetic resonance imaging antenna via the antenna connector. The subject support includes a remotely controllable actuator configured to translate the antenna connector along a path to a connector position. The method includes receiving a connector position. The method also includes controlling the remotely controllable actuator to move the antenna connector along the path to the connector position.

[0033] In another embodiment, the path is a linear path.

[0034] In another embodiment the path is aligned with the z-axis of a magnet of the magnetic resonance imaging system.

[0035] In another embodiment, at least part of the path follows a curve. This may be beneficial when connecting a head coil or other coil dedicated to a specific anatomical region.

[0036] In another embodiment, a first portion of the path follows the z-axis and at least a second portion of the path moves perpendicular to the z-axis. This may be beneficial when connecting a head coil or other coil dedicated to a specific anatomical region.

[0037] In another aspect, the present invention provides a computer program product comprising machine executable instructions for being executed by a processor controlling a medical instrument. The medical instrument comprises a magnetic resonance imaging system. The medical instrument further comprises a radio frequency system configured to acquire magnetic resonance imaging data from an imaging region of the magnetic resonance imaging system. The radio frequency system is configured to send and receive radio frequency signals to acquire the magnetic resonance imaging data. The radio frequency system is configured to be connected to a magnetic resonance imaging antenna.

[0038] The medical instrument also includes an object support configured to support at least a portion of an object in an imaging region of the magnetic resonance imaging system. The object support includes an antenna connector configured to be connected to the magnetic resonance imaging antenna via an antenna connector. The object support includes a remotely controllable actuator configured to translate the antenna connector along a path to a connector position. Execution of the machine executable instructions causes the processor to receive a connector position. Execution of the machine executable instructions also causes the processor to control the remotely controllable actuator to move the antenna connector along the path to the connector position.

[0039] It should be understood that one or more of the aforementioned embodiments of the present invention may be combined as long as the combined embodiments are not mutually exclusive.

[0040] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that aspects of the present invention may be implemented as devices, methods, or computer program products. Therefore, aspects of the present invention may take the form of a complete hardware embodiment, a complete software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, microcode, etc.), or an embodiment that combines software and hardware aspects, all of which are generally referred to herein as "circuits," "modules," or "systems." In addition, aspects of the present invention may take the form of a computer program product implemented in one or more computer-readable media having a computer executable code implemented thereon.

[0041] Any combination of one or more computer-readable media may be utilized. A computer-readable medium may be a computer-readable signal medium or a computer-readable storage medium. As used herein, "computer-readable storage medium" encompasses any tangible storage medium that can store instructions that can be executed by a processor of a computing device. A computer-readable storage medium may be referred to as a computer-readable non-transient storage medium. A computer-readable storage medium may also be referred to as a tangible computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, a computer-readable storage medium may also store data that can be accessed by a processor of a computing device. Examples of computer-readable storage media include, but are not limited to, floppy disks, magnetic hard disk drives, solid-state hard disks, flash memories, USB thumb drives, random access memories (RAM), read-only memories (ROM), optical disks, magneto-optical disks, and register files of processors. Examples of optical disks include compact disks (CDs) and digital versatile disks (DVDs), such as CD-ROMs, CD-RWs, CD-Rs, DVD-ROMs, DVD-RWs, or DVD-R disks. The term "computer-readable storage medium" also refers to various types of recording media that can be accessed by a computer device via a network or communication link. For example, data may be retrieved on a modem, on the Internet, or on a local area network. Computer executable code embodied on a computer readable medium may be transmitted using any appropriate medium, including but not limited to wireless, wireline, optical fiber cable, RF, etc., or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

[0042] A computer readable signal medium may include, for example, a propagated data signal in which a computer executable code is implemented, in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagated signal may take any of a variety of forms, including, but not limited to, electromagnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer readable signal medium may be any computer readable medium that is not a computer readable storage medium and that is capable of conveying, propagating, or transmitting a program for use by or in conjunction with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0043] "Computer memory" or "memory" is an example of a computer-readable storage medium. Computer memory is any memory that can be directly accessed by a processor. "Computer storage" or "storage device" is another example of a computer-readable storage medium. A computer storage device is any non-volatile computer-readable storage medium. In some embodiments, a computer storage device may also be computer memory, or vice versa.

[0044] As used herein, "processor" encompasses an electronic component capable of running a program or machine executable instructions or computer executable code. References to computing devices including "processors" should be interpreted as possibly including more than one processor or processing core. The processor may be, for example, a multi-core processor. The processor may also refer to a collection of processors within a single computer system or distributed between multiple computer systems. The term "computing device" should also be interpreted as possibly referring to a collection or network of multiple computing devices, each of which includes one or more processors. Computer executable code may be executed by multiple processors that may be within the same computing device or may even be distributed on multiple computing devices.

[0045] Computer executable code may include machine executable instructions or programs that cause a processor to perform an aspect of the present invention. Computer executable code for performing operations for various aspects of the present invention may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including object-oriented programming languages ​​(e.g., Java, Smalltalk, C++, etc.) and conventional procedural programming languages ​​(e.g., "C" programming language or similar programming languages), and compiled into machine executable instructions. In some instances, the computer executable code may be in the form of a high-level language or in a precompiled form, and may be used in conjunction with an interpreter that generates machine executable instructions on the fly.

[0046] The computer executable code may run entirely on the user's computer as a stand-alone software package, partially on the user's computer, partially on the user's computer and partially on a remote computer, or entirely on a remote computer or server. In the latter two scenarios, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or may be connected to an external computer (e.g., through the Internet using an Internet service provider).

[0047] Various aspects of the present invention are described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, devices (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the present invention. It should be understood that each frame or part of the frame of a flowchart, diagram and / or block diagram can be implemented by a computer program instruction in the form of computer executable code when appropriate. It should also be understood that when mutually non-exclusive, the frames in different flowcharts, diagrams and / or block diagrams can be combined. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer or other programmable data processing device to produce a machine, so that the instructions executed by the processor of a computer or other programmable data processing device create a unit for implementing the function / action specified in one or more frames of a flowchart and / or block diagram.

[0048] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable medium that can direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to function in a specific manner so that the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium produce an article of manufacture that includes instructions for implementing the functions / actions specified in the flowchart and / or one or more block diagram blocks.

[0049] The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus, or other devices, thereby producing a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions running on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide a process for implementing the functions / actions specified in the flowchart and / or one or more block diagram blocks.

[0050] "User interface" used herein is an interface that allows a user or operator to interact with a computer or computer system. "User interface" may also be referred to as a "human-machine interface device". A user interface may provide information or data to an operator and / or receive information or data from an operator. A user interface may enable the input from an operator to be received by the computer, and may provide output to a user from the computer. In other words, a user interface may allow an operator to control or manipulate a computer, and the interface may allow the computer to indicate the effect of the control or manipulation of the operator. The display of data or information on a display or graphical user interface is an example of providing information to an operator. Receiving data by a keyboard, mouse, tracking ball, touch pad, pointing stick, graphic input board, joystick, game controller, webcam, head mounted device, foot pedal, wired gloves, remote controller, and accelerometer is all examples of user interface components that enable receiving information or data from an operator.

[0051] "Hardware interface" as used herein encompasses an interface that enables a processor of a computer system to interact with and / or control an external computing device and / or apparatus. A hardware interface may allow a processor to send a control signal or instruction to an external computing device and / or apparatus. A hardware interface may also enable a processor to exchange data with an external computing device and / or apparatus. Examples of hardware interfaces include, but are not limited to, a universal serial bus, an IEEE 1394 port, a parallel port, an IEEE 1284 port, a serial port, an RS-232 port, an IEEE-488 port, a Bluetooth connection, a wireless LAN connection, a TCP / IP connection, an Ethernet connection, a control voltage interface, a MIDI interface, an analog input interface, and a digital input interface.

[0052] As used herein, a "display" or "display device" encompasses an output device or user interface suitable for displaying images or data. A display may output visual, auditory, and / or tactile data. Examples of displays include, but are not limited to: a computer monitor, a television screen, a touch screen, a tactile electronic display, a Braille screen, a cathode ray tube (CRT), a memory tube, a bi-stable display, an electronic paper, a vector display, a flat panel display, a vacuum fluorescent display (VF), a light emitting diode (LED) display, an electroluminescent display (ELD), a plasma display panel (PDP), a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light emitting diode display (OLED), a projector, and a head mounted display.

[0053] Magnetic resonance (MR) data is defined herein as the measurement of radio frequency signals emitted by atomic spins recorded by the antenna of a magnetic resonance device during a magnetic resonance imaging scan. MRF magnetic resonance data is magnetic resonance data. Magnetic resonance data is an example of medical image data. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) image or MR image is defined herein as a two-dimensional or three-dimensional visualization reconstructed from anatomical data contained within the magnetic resonance imaging data. This visualization can be performed using a computer. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0054] In the following, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0055] Figure 1 An example of a medical instrument is illustrated;

[0056] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 additional views of medical instruments;

[0057] Figure 3 Shows Figure 1 additional views of medical instruments;

[0058] Figure 3A The diagram shows the operation Figure 1 A flowchart of a method of a medical instrument;

[0059] Figure 4 Further examples of medical instruments are illustrated;

[0060] Figure 5 Further examples of medical instruments are illustrated;

[0061] Figure 6 Further examples of medical instruments are illustrated;

[0062] Figure 7 An example of an object support is illustrated;

[0063] Figure 8 Further examples of object supports are illustrated;

[0064] Fig. 9 Further examples of medical instruments are illustrated;

[0065] Fig.10 Further examples of medical instruments are illustrated;

[0066] Fig.11 Further examples of medical instruments are illustrated;

[0067] Fig.12 Further examples of medical instruments are illustrated;

[0068] Fig.13 The diagram shows the operation Fig.11 A flowchart of a method of a medical instrument; and

[0069] Fig.14 Further examples of medical instruments are illustrated.

[0070] Reference numerals list

[0071] 100 Medical Imaging Systems

[0072] 102 Magnetic Resonance Imaging System

[0073] 104 Magnet

[0074] 106 Magnet bore

[0075] 108 Imaging Area

[0076] 110 Magnetic field gradient coil

[0077] 112 Magnetic field gradient coil power supply

[0078] 114 Magnetic Resonance Imaging Antenna

[0079] 115 Cable

[0080] 116 Transceiver

[0081] 118 Objects

[0082] 120 Object Support

[0083] 122 Remotely controlled actuator

[0084] 124 Antenna connector

[0085] 126 Path

[0086] 128 Physical location of connector location

[0087] 130 Cable Management System

[0088] 140 Computer Systems

[0089] 142 Hardware Interface

[0090] 144 Processor

[0091] 146 User Interface

[0092] 148 Computer memory

[0093] 150 machine executable instructions

[0094] 152 Pulse sequence commands

[0095] 154 Connector location

[0096] 300 Area of ​​Interest

[0097] 302 MRI data

[0098] 304 Magnetic Resonance Images

[0099] 350 Receive connector location

[0100] 352 Controlling a remotely controlled actuator to move the antenna connector along the path to the connector position

[0101] 400 Camera System

[0102] 402 Camera Image

[0103] 404 Antenna Position Model

[0104] 406 Registering the Antenna Position Model to the Camera Image

[0105] 500 Object Model

[0106] 502 Registering the Object Model to the Camera Image

[0107] 504 MRI Region of Interest Selection

[0108] 600 Medical instruments

[0109] 606 NFC Detector

[0110] 608 NFC signal

[0111] 610 NFC signal received

[0112] 700 button linear array

[0113] 800 Touch Sensor

[0114] 900 Medical Imaging Systems

[0115] 902 RF System Transceiver

[0116] 904 Antenna Transceiver

[0117] 906 Wireless Connection

[0118] 1000 Medical instruments

[0119] 1002 Antenna plug with coil electronics

[0120] 1100 Medical Instruments

[0121] 1102 Coil Electronics

[0122] 1200 Medical instruments

[0123] 1202 External beam radiation therapy system

[0124] 1206 Rack

[0125] 1208 Radiotherapy Source

[0126] 1210 Collimator

[0127] 1214 Cryostat

[0128] 1216 Superconducting Coil

[0129] 1218 Superconducting Shielding Coil

[0130] 1220 Body Coil

[0131] 1238 Target Area

[0132] 1240 Frame Rotation Axis

[0133] 1242 Radiation beam path

[0134] 1250 Radiation Therapy Instructions

[0135] 1252 Calculated beam path

[0136] 1300 receiving a radiotherapy instruction configured to control a radiotherapy system to irradiate a target area

[0137] 1302 Using radiation therapy instructions to determine beam paths

[0138] 1304 Modify connector position to avoid beam path

[0139] 1306 Use radiation therapy instructions to control the radiation therapy system to irradiate the target area

[0140] 1400 Medical instruments DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0141] In these figures, elements with the same reference numerals are either equivalent elements or perform the same function. Elements discussed previously need not be discussed again in subsequent figures if the function is the same.

[0142] Figure 1 An example of a medical imaging system 100 is illustrated. The medical imaging system 100 comprises a magnetic resonance imaging system 102. The magnetic resonance imaging system 102 comprises a magnet 104. The magnet 104 is a superconducting cylindrical type magnet having a bore 106 passing therethrough. Different types of magnets may also be used; for example, split cylindrical magnets and so-called open magnets may also be used. Split cylindrical magnets are similar to standard cylindrical magnets, except that the cryostat has been divided into two parts to allow access to the isoplane of the magnet, such magnets may be used, for example, in conjunction with charged particle beam therapy. Open magnets have two magnet parts, one above the other, with space between the two magnets sufficient to accommodate a subject: the area arrangement of the two parts is similar to a Helmholtz coil. Open magnets are popular because the subject is less constrained. Inside the cryostat of the cylindrical magnet there is a collection of superconducting coils. Within the bore 106 of the cylindrical magnet 104 is an imaging zone 108 in which the magnetic field is sufficiently strong and uniform to perform magnetic resonance imaging. A region of interest 109 is shown within the imaging zone 108. Magnetic resonance data is typically acquired for the region of interest. An object 118 is shown supported by an object support 120 so that at least a portion of the object 118 is within the imaging zone 108 and the region of interest 109.

[0143] Also within the bore 106 of the magnet is a collection of magnetic field gradient coils 110 for acquiring preliminary magnetic resonance data to spatially encode magnetic spins within the imaging zone 108 of the magnet 104. The magnetic field gradient coils 110 are connected to a magnetic field gradient coil power supply 112. The magnetic field gradient coils 110 are intended to be representative. Typically, the magnetic field gradient coils 110 include three independent coil sets, which are used to perform spatial encoding in three orthogonal spatial directions. The magnetic field gradient power supply supplies current to the magnetic field gradient coils. The current supplied to the magnetic field gradient coils 110 is controlled according to time and can be ramped or pulsed.

[0144] Adjacent to the imaging zone 108 is a magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114, which is used to manipulate the orientation of magnetic spins within the imaging zone 108 and to receive radio transmissions from spins also within the imaging zone 108. The radio frequency antenna may include multiple coil elements. The radio frequency antenna may also be referred to as a channel, coil, or antenna. The magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114 is connected to a radio frequency system 116. In some cases, the radio frequency system 116 may be a transceiver connected to the magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114. In other cases, the radio frequency system 116 may be a system that controls and / or communicates with a preamplifier, transmitter, and / or receiver on the magnetic resonance imaging coil.

[0145] The magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114 and the radio frequency system 116 may be replaced by separate transmit and receive coils and separate transmitters and receivers. It should be understood that the magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114 and the radio frequency system 116 are representative. The magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114 and the radio frequency system 116 may have multiple receive / transmit channels. For example, if a parallel imaging technique such as SENSE is performed, the magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114 may have multiple coil elements.

[0146] The subject support 120 is configured to at least partially support the subject 118 within the imaging zone 108. The subject support 120 is shown as having been withdrawn or not yet placed into the bore 106 of the magnet 104. The subject support 120 includes an antenna connector 124 that can be moved along a path 126 by a remotely controllable actuator 122. Arrow 122 indicates the actuator and the path 126 that it can travel to the antenna connector 124. The magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114 has a cable 115 that can be connected to the antenna connector 124. In this example, the cable 115 is relatively short, so it is necessary to optimally move the antenna connector 124 to the physical location 128 of the connector location. In this example, a cable management system 130 is used to connect the transceiver 116 to the antenna connector 124. In different examples, the cable 115 can take different forms. In some forms, the cable 115 is a radio frequency cable. In other examples, the cable can also include optical or other digital transmission elements. In other examples, cable 115 may be replaced by a wireless connection.

[0147] The radio frequency system 116 and the gradient controller 112 are shown as being connected to a hardware interface 142 of a computer system 140. The computer system also includes a processor 144 in communication with the hardware interface 142, a memory 148, and a user interface 146. The memory 148 can be any combination of memory accessible to the processor 144. This may include things such as main memory, cache memory, and may also include non-volatile memory such as flash RAM, a hard drive, or other storage device. In some examples, the memory 148 can be considered a non-transitory computer readable medium.

[0148] The memory 148 is shown as containing machine executable instructions 150. The machine executable instructions 150 enable the processor 144 to control the operation and function of the medical instrument 100. The machine executable instructions 150 also enable the processor 144 to perform various data analysis and computing functions. The computer memory 148 may also contain pulse sequence commands. The pulse sequence commands may be configured to control the magnetic resonance imaging system 102 to acquire magnetic resonance imaging data from the subject 118 according to a magnetic resonance imaging protocol.

[0149] The memory 148 is also shown as containing the connector position 154 that has been received by the computer system 140. The connector position 154 corresponds to the physical position 128. The processor 144 can then control the actuator 122 to move the antenna connector 124 to the physical position 128.

[0150] Figure 2 Further views of the medical device 100 are shown. Figure 2 In the view shown, the antenna connector 124 has been moved to the connector position 128 using the actuator 122. This brings the antenna connector 124 into close enough proximity so that the cable 115 can be connected to the antenna connector 124. The magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114 can now be used.

[0151] Figure 3 A further view of the medical imaging system 100 is shown. In this example, the subject support 120 has been moved into the bore 106 of the magnet 104. The subject 118 is now positioned so that the magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114 is within the imaging zone 108 and the region of interest 300 can be imaged.

[0152] The computer memory 148 is further shown as containing magnetic resonance imaging data 302 which has been acquired from the imaging zone 300 by controlling the magnetic resonance imaging system 102 using the pulse sequence commands 152. The memory 148 is further shown as containing a magnetic resonance image 304 which has been reconstructed from the magnetic resonance imaging data 302.

[0153] Figure 3A The diagram shows the operation Figure 1, Figure 2 and Figure 3 Flow chart of the method of the medical imaging system 100 is shown. First, in step 350, the connector position 154 is received. Next, in step 352, the remotely controllable actuator 122 is controlled to move the connector 124 to the connector position 128.

[0154] exist Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 , connector location 154 is shown in memory 148 . Figure 4-8 The figure illustrates an addition that can be made to the medical imaging system 100, which allows the connector position 154 to be either manually received from the operator or automatically obtained. Figure 4-8 The example shown is similar to Figure 1-3 The examples shown are free combinations.

[0155] Figure 4 A further example of a medical imaging system 400 is shown. Figure 4 The medical imaging system 400 is similar to Figure 1-3 The medical imaging system 100 of the present invention is different in that there is an additional camera system 400. The camera system 400 may be formed by one or more cameras. The one or more cameras may be inside and / or outside the bore 106 of the magnet 104. The camera system is pointed in a certain direction and is capable of imaging the surface of the object support 120.

[0156] The memory 148 is also shown as containing a camera image 402 acquired using the camera system 400. The image 402 shows an image of the magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114 on the object 118. The memory 148 is also shown as containing an antenna position model 404. The memory 148 is also shown as containing a registration 406 of the antenna position model 404 to the camera image 402. The registration 406 is equivalent to knowing the position of the magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114. The registration 406 can then be used to calculate the connector position 154.

[0157] The connector location 154 may, for example, be part of the antenna location model 404 , or there may be a lookup table or other data that can be used to infer or calculate the location of the connector location 154 . Figure 4 The medical imaging system 400 is capable of automatically detecting the position of the magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114 and moving the antenna connector 124 to the appropriate position.

[0158] Figure 5 A further example of a medical imaging system 500 is illustrated. Figure 5 The medical imaging system 500 in Figure 4 The medical imaging system 500 still includes the camera system 400. However, Figure 5 As shown, the magnetic resonance imaging antenna has not yet been placed on the subject 118. The memory 148 is also shown as containing a camera image 402. However, in this example, the camera image 402 only contains an image of the subject 118 lying on the subject support 120.

[0159] The memory 148 is also shown as containing an object model 500. The memory 148 is also shown as containing a registration 502 of the object model 500 to the camera image 402. This is equivalent to indicating the position of the object 118. The registration 502 can then be used to calculate the connector position 154. The memory 148 is also shown as containing an optional MRI region of interest selection 504. This can be, for example, a region of interest relative to the object model 500. The MRI region of interest selection 504 can then be used to locate the desired region of interest to be imaged in the actual object 118. The MRI region of interest selection 504 and the registration 502 can also be used to calculate the connector position 154.

[0160] Figure 6 A further example of a medical imaging system 600 is illustrated. Figure 6 The example shown is similar to Figure 1-3 Example shown. Figure 6 The medical instrument 600 in FIG. 1 is shown to additionally include a near field communication or NFC detector 606. The magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114 includes an NFC transmitter or transceiver configured to emit an NFC signal 608. Emitting the NFC signal 608 enables the NFC detector 606 to receive the NFC signal 610 and determine the antenna position.

[0161] Determining the antenna position enables the processor 144 to calculate the connector position 154. For example, the memory 148 may contain the received NFC signal 610. The NFC detector 606 may actually include multiple NFC detectors and may enable triangulation of the position of the magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114. Alternatively, the NFC detector 606 may be mounted on the antenna connector 124 and may learn the position of the antenna 114 by noting how the NFC signal 608 changes as the antenna connector 124 moves along the path 126.

[0162] Figure 7 The diagram shows the Figure 1-3 An example of a subject support 120 in a medical instrument 100 is shown. A subject 118 can be shown lying on the subject support 120. An antenna connector 124 is visible and can travel along a path 126. Parallel to the path 126 is a linear array 700 of buttons. An operator can press one of these buttons and this can be recorded as a connector position 154.

[0163] Figure 8 The diagram shows the Figure 1-3 FIG. 1 is another example of an object support 120 in a medical instrument 100 . Figure 8 The example in is similar to Figure 7 , except that the linear array of buttons has been replaced with one or more touch sensors 800. An operator simply touches a location on the touch sensor 800 to register it as a connector location 154.

[0164] Fig. 9 , Fig.10 and Fig.11 Different ways in which the magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114 can be connected to the antenna connector 124 are illustrated. Fig. 9 , Fig.10 and Fig.11 It is not shown how the connector position 154 is determined. Fig. 9 , Fig.10 and Fig.11 Each can Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 Combine to combine different embodiments.

[0165] Fig. 9 A further example of a medical instrument 900 is illustrated. The medical instrument 900 is shown to include an RF system transceiver 902 integrated into the antenna connector 124. The magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114 is shown to include the antenna transceiver 904. The RF system transceiver 902 and the antenna transceiver 904 are configured to form a wireless connection 906. Thus, the magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114 does not have any wired connection during the acquisition of magnetic resonance imaging data.

[0166] The performance of such a system will depend in large part on where the RF system transceiver 902 is located. Once the location of the magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114 is determined, the model can be used to select the connector location 154. Positioning the magnetic resonance imaging antenna may be performed, for example, by moving the antenna connector 124 and noting changes in the signal strength of the wireless connection 906, or may be performed by any of the means shown in any of the previous figures.

[0167] Fig.10 Another example of a medical instrument 1000 is shown. The medical instrument 1000 is similar to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The example shown, except that the magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114 is modified so that the magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114 includes an antenna plug 1002 at the end of the cable 115. The antenna plug 1002 includes the coil electronics. The preamplifier, digital converter and other active components have been removed from the magnetic resonance imaging antenna and placed in the antenna plug 1002. This has the advantage of making the magnetic resonance imaging antenna lighter and more transparent to, for example, radiation. This is possible because the cable length 115 is kept short. The antenna connector 124 then provides power and digital connections to the antenna plug 1002. This example can be beneficial because the antenna plug 124 can be designed with a standard interface that can interface with many different magnetic resonance imaging antennas 114.

[0168] Fig.11 Another example of a medical instrument 1100 is shown. Fig.11 The medical instrument 1100 in FIG. 1 illustrates an antenna connector 124 that includes coil electronics 1102. The coil electronics may include a preamplifier and / or various digitizers and other active electronics for the magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114. This allows the magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114 to be lighter and have fewer components on its surface. Fig.11 The characteristics can be Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The examples shown are further combined.

[0169] Fig.12 A further example of a medical instrument 1200 is shown. In this example, the medical instrument 1200 also includes a radiation therapy system 1202. Fig.12 The example shown is Fig.11 An example of a combination of with a radiation therapy system 1202. Fig.12 Depicted in Fig.11 The object support 120 is provided.

[0170] In this particular example, the radiotherapy system is a linear accelerator (LINAC). However, the depiction of a LINAC is merely representative. Other types of radiotherapy systems that can be guided by magnetic resonance imaging may also be substituted. The radiotherapy system 1202 includes a gantry 1206 and a radiotherapy source 1208. The gantry 1206 is used to rotate the radiotherapy source 1208 about a gantry rotation axis 1240. Adjacent to the radiotherapy source 1208 is a collimator 1210.

[0171] The magnet 104 shown in this embodiment is a standard cylindrical superconducting magnet. The magnet 1045 has a cryostat 1214 with superconducting coils 1216 inside the cryostat 1214. There are also superconducting shielding coils 1218 inside the cryostat. The magnet 104 has a bore 106.

[0172] Within the bore 106 of the magnet 104, the subject support 120 supports the subject 118. The subject support 134 may be positioned by a mechanical positioning system. Within the subject 118 there is a target zone 1238. In this particular embodiment, the gantry rotation axis 1240 is coaxial with the cylindrical axis of the magnet 104. The subject support 120 has been positioned so that the target zone 1238 is located on the gantry rotation axis 1240. The radiation source 1208 is shown as generating a radiation beam 1242 that passes through the collimator 1210 and through the target zone 1238. As the radiation source 1208 rotates about the axis 1240, the radiation beam 1242 will always target the target zone 1238. The radiation beam 1242 passes through the cryostat 1214 of the magnet 104. The magnetic field gradient coil 110 may have a gap that divides the magnetic field gradient coil into two parts. If present, the gap reduces the attenuation of the radiation beam 1242 by the magnetic field gradient coil 110 .

[0173] It can be seen that within the bore 116 of the magnet 104 there is an optional body coil 1220 connected to the radio frequency system 116. The radiation therapy system 1202 is shown as being additionally connected to the hardware interface 142.

[0174] The computer memory 150 is shown as containing machine executable instructions 152 that enable the processor 148 to control the operation and function of the various components of the medical instrument 100. The computer memory 150 is also shown as containing pulse sequence commands 154 that enable the processor 148 to control the magnetic resonance imaging system 104 to acquire magnetic resonance data. The memory 148 is also shown as containing radiation therapy instructions 1250. The radiation therapy instructions 1250 can be used to determine a calculated beam path 1252. The calculated beam path 1252 can be used to modify the vector position 154. In Fig.12 As can be seen in FIG. 124 , the antenna connector 124 is safely located outside of the beam path 1242. By presetting the connector position 154 and then modifying the connector position 154 using the calculated beam path 1252, the quality of radiation therapy can be improved.

[0175] The computer memory 148 is also shown as containing a magnetic resonance image 304 reconstructed from the magnetic resonance data 302. The magnetic resonance image 304 may be used, for example, to guide radiation therapy using the radiation therapy system 1202.

[0176] Fig.13 The diagram shows the operation Fig.12 Flow chart of a method for a medical instrument 1200. First, in step 350, a connector position 154 is received. Next, in step 1300, a radiation therapy instruction 1250 is received. Then, in step 1302, a beam path 1252 is determined. Next, in step 1304, the connector position 154 is modified to avoid the beam path 1252. Then, in step 352, a remotely controllable actuator is controlled to move the antenna connector 124 along the path to the connector position 154. Finally, in step 1306, the radiation therapy instruction 1250 is used to control the radiation therapy system 1202 to use the radiation therapy system 1202 to irradiate the target area 1238. Although in Fig.13 Not shown, but magnetic resonance imaging data 302 can also be acquired and used to create a magnetic resonance image 304 that can be used to guide radiation therapy.

[0177] In a typical MR system setup, the RF coil is connected to the RF interface of the MR scanner using an RF / power cable via a connector. The connection point for the RF coil is fixed to the patient bed. Due to the limited length of the coil cable, the positioning freedom of the RF coil is limited and is not optimal for the clinical workflow. For RF safety reasons, the RF cable of the coil is short.

[0178] A completely wireless RF coil would allow for free positioning of the RF coil. In this case, a lot of digital hardware and power transmission or batteries would need to be additionally integrated, which would make the coil thicker and relatively heavy. An example could be to provide a thin coil that is thinner and has greater freedom of positioning. In clinical situations, it is preferable to use thinner and lightweight RF coils because they can be freely positioned.

[0179] The example may not require a long cable and is not constrained by a fixed connector at the end of the cable bed. In addition, it may improve safety by avoiding the use of long cables.

[0180] An example may use a traveling connector (antenna connector) using RF secure cable management integrated into the bed / support. The proposed system includes a dedicated connector that travels along the bed.

[0181] When the coil is placed on the patient, a relatively short cable is connected to the mobile plug.

[0182] In some examples, the plug may be automatically moved to the corresponding coil via optical / NFC detection.

[0183] Examples may allow for greater freedom in connection of RF coils and improve RF safety.

[0184] Fig.14 Another example of a medical instrument 1400 is illustrated. The medical instrument is shown with an MRI system 102 having a magnet 104 and a subject support 120. A subject 118 is shown lying on the subject support 120. A magnetic resonance imaging antenna 114 has two cables 115 connected to antenna connectors 124. Both antenna connectors 124 are capable of moving on a path 126 on either side of the subject 118. The system is controlled by a computer system 140 and has an application on a user interface 146. The computer system 140 provides a processor and control functions.

[0185] Fig.14 Possible example medical instruments are shown: Travel plugs are located on the left and right sides of the bed and travel along the rail system. The travel plug / connector is electrically connected to a flexible cable located in / under the bed. The traveler interface (user interface) 146 can also be a wireless / optical connection.

[0186] The traveling connector can be moved on a sliding system. The flexible connection cable is integrated in the bed / support. The flexible cable can be an optical cable, so no RF trap is needed.

[0187] A different embodiment is a wirelessly connected traveler plug (antenna connector). Here the coil is already connected, but the traveler connector also contains the wireless transceiver device, so only the power cord is needed.

[0188] While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, such illustration and description are to be considered illustrative or exemplary and not restrictive; the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments.

[0189] Those skilled in the art can understand and implement other variations of the disclosed embodiments when practicing the claimed invention by studying the drawings, the disclosure and the claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the words "one" or "an" do not exclude multiple. A single processor or other unit can implement the functions of several items recorded in the claims. Although certain measures are recorded in mutually different dependent claims, this does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. The computer program may be stored / distributed on a suitable medium, for example, an optical storage medium or solid-state medium supplied together with other hardware or as part of other hardware, but may also be distributed in other forms, for example, via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunications systems. Any reference numerals in the claims should not be interpreted as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A medical apparatus (100, 400, 500, 600, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400) comprising a magnetic resonance imaging system, wherein: The medical instrument comprises: a radio frequency system (116) configured to transmit and receive radio frequency signals to acquire magnetic resonance imaging data (302), wherein the radio frequency system is configured to be connected to a magnetic resonance imaging antenna (114) including a cable (115); a subject support (120) configured to support at least a portion of a subject (118) in an imaging zone (108) of the magnetic resonance imaging system, wherein the subject support comprises an antenna connector (124) configured to connect to the magnetic resonance imaging antenna, wherein the radio frequency system is configured to connect to the magnetic resonance imaging antenna via the antenna connector, wherein the subject support comprises a controllable actuator configured to translate the antenna connector along a path to a connector position; a memory (148) comprising machine executable instructions (150); A processor (144) for controlling the magnetic resonance imaging system, wherein execution of the machine executable instructions causes the processor to: determining (350) the connector position by non-contact means; and The controllable actuator is controlled (352) to move the antenna connector along the path to the connector position so that the cable of the magnetic resonance imaging antenna can be connected to the antenna connector.

2. The medical instrument according to claim 1, wherein: The controllable actuator is a remotely controllable actuator.

3. The medical instrument according to claim 1, wherein: The object support includes an NFC detector (606) configured to receive an NFC signal (608) from the magnetic resonance imaging antenna, and wherein execution of the machine-executable instructions further causes the processor to determine the connector position using, at least in part, the NFC signal.

4. The medical instrument according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The medical instrument also includes a camera (400) configured to provide a camera image (402) including the object support, wherein execution of the machine-executable instructions further causes the processor to use the camera image to determine the connector position.

5. The medical instrument according to claim 4, wherein: The processor is configured to register (406) an antenna position model (404) to the camera image, wherein the determination of the connector position using the camera image is performed at least in part using the registration of the antenna position model.

6. The medical instrument according to claim 4, wherein: A processor is configured to register (502) an object model (500) to the camera image, wherein the determining of the connector position using the camera image is performed at least in part using the registration of the object model.

7. The medical instrument according to claim 6, wherein: Execution of the machine executable instructions further causes the processor to receive an MRI region of interest selection (504), wherein the connector location is determined at least in part using the registration of the MRI region of interest selection and the object model.

8. The medical instrument according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and 5 to 7, wherein: The object support also includes linear position selectors (700, 800) distributed along the path, wherein execution of the machine executable instructions further causes the processor to receive a selected position from the linear position selector, wherein the connector position is at least partially determined using the selected position, and wherein the linear position selector is any one of: a linear array of buttons (700) and a touch sensor (800).

9. The medical instrument according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and 5 to 7, wherein: The medical instrument also includes a radiation therapy system (1202) configured to irradiate a target zone (1238), wherein the target zone is within the imaging zone, wherein execution of the machine-executable instructions further causes the processor to: receiving (1300) a radiation therapy instruction (1250) configured to control the radiation therapy system to irradiate the target area; determining (1302) a beam path (1252) using the radiation therapy instructions; modifying (1304) the connector position to avoid the beam path; and The radiation therapy instructions are used to control (1306) the radiation therapy system to irradiate the target zone.

10. The medical instrument according to any one of claims 1-3 and 5-7, wherein: The medical instrument comprises the magnetic resonance imaging antenna.

11. The medical instrument according to claim 10, wherein: The cable (115) has an antenna plug (1002), wherein the antenna plug is configured to couple with the antenna connector, wherein the antenna plug includes any one of the following: an MRI antenna preamplifier, a digital-to-analog converter, an analog-to-digital converter, and a combination thereof.

12. The medical instrument according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and 5 to 7, wherein: The radio frequency system includes coil electronics (1102) within the object support, wherein the coil electronics are configured to move with the antenna connector, wherein the coil electronics include any of the following: an MRI antenna preamplifier, a digital-to-analog converter, an analog-to-digital converter, and combinations thereof.

13. The medical instrument according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and 5 to 7, wherein: The antenna connector includes an RF system transceiver (902) configured to form a wireless connection (906) with the magnetic resonance imaging antenna, wherein execution of the machine executable instructions further causes the processor to: determining a position of the magnetic resonance imaging antenna using, at least in part, the RF system transceiver; and The connector position is determined using the position of the magnetic resonance imaging antenna.

14. The medical instrument according to claim 13, wherein: The medical instrument further comprises the magnetic resonance imaging antenna, wherein the magnetic resonance imaging antenna further comprises an antenna transceiver (904) configured to form the wireless connection with the RF system transceiver.

15. A method of operating a medical instrument (100, 400, 500, 600, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400), wherein: The medical apparatus comprises a magnetic resonance imaging system (102), wherein the medical apparatus further comprises a radio frequency system (116) configured to acquire magnetic resonance imaging data (300) from an imaging zone (108) of the magnetic resonance imaging system, wherein the radio frequency system is configured to send and receive radio frequency signals to acquire the magnetic resonance imaging data, wherein the radio frequency system is configured to be connected to a magnetic resonance imaging antenna (114) comprising a cable (115), wherein the medical instrument further comprises a subject support (120) configured to support at least a portion of a subject (118) in the imaging zone, wherein the subject support comprises an antenna connector (124) configured to be connected to the magnetic resonance imaging antenna, wherein the radio frequency system is configured to be connected to the magnetic resonance imaging antenna via the antenna connector, wherein the subject support comprises a controllable actuator (122) configured to translate the antenna connector along a path to a connector position, Wherein, the method comprises: determining (350) the connector position by non-contact means; and The controllable actuator is controlled (352) to move the antenna connector along the path to the connector position so that the cable of the magnetic resonance imaging antenna can be connected to the antenna connector.

16. A computer program product comprising machine executable instructions (150) for execution by a processor controlling a medical instrument (100, 400, 500, 600, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1400), wherein: The medical instrument comprises a magnetic resonance imaging system (102), wherein the medical instrument further comprises a radio frequency system (116) configured to acquire magnetic resonance imaging data (300) from an imaging zone (108) of the magnetic resonance imaging system, wherein the radio frequency system is configured to send and receive radio frequency signals to acquire the magnetic resonance imaging data, wherein the radio frequency system is configured to connect to a magnetic resonance imaging antenna (114) comprising a cable (115), wherein the medical instrument further comprises a subject support (120) configured to support at least a portion of a subject (118) in the imaging zone, wherein the subject support comprises an antenna connector (124) configured to connect to the magnetic resonance imaging antenna, wherein the radio frequency system is configured to connect to the magnetic resonance imaging antenna via the antenna connector, wherein the subject support comprises a controllable actuator (122) configured to translate the antenna connector along a path to a connector position, wherein execution of the machine executable instructions causes the processor to: determining (350) the connector position by non-contact means; and The controllable actuator is controlled (352) to move the antenna connector along the path to the connector position so that the cable of the magnetic resonance imaging antenna can be connected to the antenna connector.

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