Magnetic resonance compatible weighting blanket

Abstract

A weighting blanket includes a flexible woven fabric cover. The weighting blanket also includes an aprotic signal-generating and undistorted material enclosed within the flexible woven fabric cover. The emphasis blanket is magnetic resonance compatible for use on a subject during a magnetic resonance imaging scan.

Description

Background Art

[0001] The subject matter disclosed herein relates to medical imaging, and more particularly to weighted blankets that are compatible for use with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems.

[0002] Non-invasive imaging techniques allow images of internal structures or features of a patient / object to be obtained without performing an invasive procedure on the patient / object. Specifically, such non-invasive imaging techniques rely on various physical principles (such as differential transmission of X-rays through a target volume, reflection of acoustic waves within a volume, paramagnetism of different tissues and materials within a volume, decomposition of target radionuclides within the body, etc.) to acquire data and construct an image or otherwise represent the observed internal features of the patient / object.

[0003] During MRI, when a substance such as human tissue is subjected to a uniform magnetic field (polarization field B0), the individual magnetic moments of the spins in the tissue attempt to align with the polarization field, but precess around it in a random order at their characteristic Larmor frequency. If the substance or tissue is subjected to a magnetic field (excitation field B1) that is in the xy plane and close to the Larmor frequency, the net alignment moment or "longitudinal magnetization" M z can be rotated or "tilted" into the xy plane to produce a net transverse magnetic moment M t After the excitation signal B1 is terminated, a signal is emitted by the excited spins and can be received and processed to form an image.

[0004] When these signals are used to generate images, the magnetic field gradient (G x , G y and G z ). Typically, the area to be imaged is scanned in a series of measurement cycles in which these gradient fields are varied according to the particular localization method used. The resulting set of received nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) signals is digitized and processed to reconstruct an image using one of the well-known reconstruction techniques.

[0005] MR scans can cause anxiety and stress in some patients. This often results in patient movement, which increases scan time and / or creates image artifacts. Summary of the invention

[0006] The following shows an overview of certain embodiments disclosed herein. It should be understood that these aspects are provided only to provide the reader with a brief overview of these specific embodiments, and these aspects are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. In fact, the present disclosure may cover various aspects that may not be shown below.

[0007] In one embodiment, a weighted blanket is provided. The weighted blanket includes a flexible woven fabric cover. The weighted blanket also includes a non-proton signal generating and non-distorting material enclosed within the flexible woven fabric cover. The weighted blanket is magnetic resonance compatible for use on a subject during a magnetic resonance imaging scan.

[0008] In another embodiment, a weighted blanket is provided. The weighted blanket includes a flexible and fireproof and flame retardant woven fabric cover. The weighted blanket also includes polycarbonate plastic beads enclosed within the flexible and fireproof and flame retardant woven fabric cover. The weighted blanket is magnetic resonance compatible for use on a subject during a magnetic resonance imaging scan.

[0009] In another embodiment, a method for making a weighted blanket is provided. The method includes providing a first layer and a second layer of a flexible woven fabric. The method also includes providing a material that generates a non-proton signal and does not distort. The method also includes enclosing the material that generates a non-proton signal and does not distort between the first layer and the second layer. The weighted blanket is magnetic resonance compatible for use on a subject during a magnetic resonance imaging scan. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present subject matter will be better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like characters refer to like parts throughout the several views, and in which:

[0011] Figure 1 An embodiment of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system suitable for use with the disclosed techniques is shown;

[0012] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an RF coil assembly according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of components of a weighted blanket for use during a scan utilizing an MRI system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of components of a weighted blanket (eg, with a cover) for use during a scan utilizing an MRI system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a top view of an outer cover of a weighted blanket according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 6 is a top view of a portion of a weighted blanket having a triangular pattern (e.g., having pockets fully filled with granular beads) in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 7is a top view of a portion of a weighted blanket having a triangular pattern (e.g., having only some pockets filled with granular beads) in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 8 is a top view of a portion of a weighted blanket having a diamond pattern according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0019] Fig. 9 is a top view of a portion of a weighted blanket having a square pattern according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0020] Fig.10 is a schematic diagram illustrating the weight distribution of a weighted blanket relative to an RF coil assembly according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0021] Fig.11 is a top view of a weighted blanket having markings for alignment; and

[0022] Fig.12 is a flow chart of a method for making a weighted blanket according to aspects of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] One or more specific embodiments will be described below. In order to provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of an actual implementation are described in the specification. It should be understood that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, many implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as complying with system-related and business-related constraints that may vary from implementation to implementation. In addition, it should be understood that such development efforts may be complex and time-consuming, but are still routine tasks for design, fabrication, and manufacturing for ordinary technicians who benefit from this disclosure.

[0024] When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present subject matter, the articles "a," "an," "the," and "said" are intended to indicate that there are one or more elements. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive, and mean that there may be additional elements in addition to the listed elements. Furthermore, any numerical examples in the following discussion are intended to be non-limiting, and thus the additional numerical values, ranges, and percentages are within the scope of the disclosed embodiments.

[0025] The present disclosure provides embodiments of weighted blankets used during MRI scans. In particular, the weighted blanket is MR compatible for use on a subject (e.g., a patient) during an MRI scan. The weighted blanket includes a flexible woven fabric cover. The flexible woven fabric cover is fireproof and flame retardant. The weighted blanket also includes a material that generates non-proton signals and does not distort, which is enclosed in the flexible woven fabric cover. For example, the material that generates non-proton signals and does not distort can be made of granular beads (e.g., polycarbonate plastic beads). In certain embodiments, the weighted blanket includes a coat that can be arranged around the flexible woven fabric cover, wherein the material that generates non-proton signals and does not distort is enclosed in the flexible woven fabric cover. An image can be printed on the coat, and the image is configured to be interesting and colorful to calm or distract the subject (e.g., a pediatric population / group).

[0026] The flexible woven fabric cover and the material that generates non-proton signals and does not distort are connected (e.g., sewn or sealed) together. In certain embodiments, the flexible woven fabric cover and the material that generates non-proton signals and does not distort are connected together in a pattern that maximizes the weight distribution of the entire weighted blanket. In certain embodiments, the flexible woven fabric cover and the material that generates non-proton signals and does not distort are connected together in a pattern that distributes the weight in the weighted blanket into a pattern that aligns with the loop of a radio frequency (RF) coil in an RF receiving coil assembly disposed on a subject when the weighted blanket is placed on the RF receiving coil assembly. In this embodiment, the flexible woven fabric cover has one or more visible markings to properly orient the weighted blanket relative to the RF receiving coil assembly when the weighted blanket is placed on the RF receiving coil assembly, thereby ensuring that the weight in the weighted blanket is aligned with the loop of the RF coil. In certain embodiments, a flexible woven fabric cover and a non-proton signal generating and non-distorting material are coupled together to distribute the weight in the weighted blanket in a pattern that causes loops of an RF coil within an RF receive coil assembly disposed on a subject to move closer to the subject when the weighted blanket is placed on the RF receive coil assembly.

[0027] Weighted blankets are constructed to make patients comfortable and enhance the patient experience during MRI scans. This can then reduce patient movement. By reducing patient movement, scan time and image artifacts can be reduced. In addition, weighted blankets can push the loops or elements of the RF coil within the RF receive coil assembly closer to the patient's body to achieve optimal coil loading.

[0028] Considering the above, Figure 1, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system 100 is schematically shown as including a scanner 102, a scanner control circuit 104, and a system control circuit 106. According to the embodiments described herein, the MRI system 100 is generally configured to perform MR imaging. As described in more detail below, during a scan using the MRI system 100, a weighted blanket can be placed on a patient 126. The weighted blanket is MR compatible.

[0029] The system 100 also includes a remote access and storage system or device, such as a picture archiving and communication system (PACS) 108, or other devices, such as teleradiology equipment, that enable on-site or off-site access to data acquired by the system 100. In this way, MR data can be acquired and then processed and evaluated on-site or off-site. Although the MRI system 100 can include any suitable scanner or detector, in the illustrated embodiment, the system 100 includes a whole body scanner 102 having a housing 120 through which an aperture 122 is formed. A diagnostic table 124 can be moved into the aperture 122 so that a patient 126 can be positioned therein to image selected anatomical structures within the patient's body.

[0030] The scanner 102 includes a series of associated coils for generating a controlled magnetic field, which is used to excite gyromagnetic materials within the anatomical structure of the subject being imaged. Specifically, a primary magnetic coil 128 is provided for generating a primary magnetic field B0 that is generally aligned with the orifice 122. A series of gradient coils 130, 132, and 134 allow the generation of controlled gradient magnetic fields during the examination sequence for position encoding of certain gyromagnetic nuclei in the patient 126. A radio frequency (RF) coil 136 (e.g., an RF transmit coil) is configured to generate radio frequency pulses for exciting certain gyromagnetic nuclei in the patient. In addition to the coils that may be located locally in the scanner 102, the system 100 also includes a set of receiving coils or RF receiving coils 138 (e.g., a coil array) configured to be placed proximal to the patient 126 (e.g., against the patient). For example, the receiving coil 138 may include a cervical / thoracic / lumbar (CTL) coil, a head coil, a single-sided spine coil, etc. Generally, the receive coil 138 is placed near or on top of the patient 126 to receive the weak RF signals (weak relative to the transmit pulses generated by the scanner coil) generated by certain gyromagnetic nuclei in the patient's body when the patient 126 returns to his or her relaxed state.

[0031] The various coils of the system 100 are controlled by external circuits to generate the required fields and pulses and to read the emission from the gyromagnetic material in a controlled manner. In the illustrated embodiment, the main power supply 140 provides power to the primary field coil 128 to generate the primary magnetic field Bo. The power input (e.g., power from a utility or grid), a power distribution unit (PDU), a power supply (PS), and a drive circuit 150 can provide power together to pulse the gradient field coils 130, 132, and 134. The drive circuit 150 may include amplification and control circuitry for supplying current to the coils as defined by the digitized pulse sequence output by the scanner control circuit 104.

[0032] Another control circuit 152 is provided for regulating the operation of the RF coil 136. The circuit 152 includes a switching device for alternating between an active mode of operation and a passive mode of operation, wherein the RF coil 136 transmits and does not transmit a signal, respectively. The circuit 152 also includes an amplification circuit configured to generate RF pulses. Similarly, the receiving coil 138 is connected to a switch 154, which is capable of switching the receiving coil 138 between a receiving mode and a non-receiving mode. Thus, in the receiving mode, the receiving coil 138 resonates with the RF signal generated by the release of gyromagnetic nuclei in the patient 126, and in the non-receiving mode, they do not resonate with the RF energy from the transmitting coil (i.e., the coil 136) to prevent undesired operation. In addition, the receiving circuit 156 is configured to receive data detected by the receiving coil 138, and may include one or more multiplexing and / or amplification circuits.

[0033] It should be noted that although the scanner 102 and control / amplification circuits described above are shown as being coupled by a single line, in actual examples there may be many such lines. For example, separate lines may be used for control, data communication, power transmission, etc. In addition, appropriate hardware may be provided along each type of line for properly processing data and current / voltage. In practice, various filters, digitizers, and processors may be provided between the scanner and either or both of the scanner control circuit 104 and the system control circuit 106.

[0034] As shown, the scanner control circuit 104 includes an interface circuit 158 ​​that outputs signals for driving the gradient field coils and the RF coils and for receiving data representing magnetic resonance signals generated in the examination sequence. The interface circuit 158 ​​is coupled to a control and analysis circuit 160. Based on a defined scheme selected via the system control circuit 106, the control and analysis circuit 160 executes commands for driving the circuits 150 and 152.

[0035] The control and analysis circuitry 160 is also used to receive magnetic resonance signals and perform subsequent processing before transmitting the data to the system control circuitry 106. The scanner control circuitry 104 also includes one or more memory circuits 162 that store configuration parameters, pulse sequence descriptions, examination results, etc. during operation.

[0036] The interface circuit 164 is coupled to the control and analysis circuit 160 for exchanging data between the scanner control circuit 104 and the system control circuit 106. In some embodiments, the control and analysis circuit 160, although shown as a single unit, may include one or more hardware devices. The system control circuit 106 includes an interface circuit 166 that receives data from the scanner control circuit 104 and transmits data and commands back to the scanner control circuit 104. The control and analysis circuit 168 may include a CPU in a general or special-purpose computer or workstation. The control and analysis circuit 168 is coupled to a memory circuit 170 to store programming code for operating the MRI system 100, and to store processed image data for later reconstruction, display, and transmission. The programming code may execute one or more algorithms that are configured to perform the reconstruction of the acquired data as described below when executed by the processor. In some embodiments, the memory circuit 170 may store one or more neural networks for the reconstruction of the acquired data as described below. In some embodiments, image reconstruction may occur on a separate computing device having processing circuits and memory circuits.

[0037] Additional interface circuitry 172 may be provided for exchanging image data, configuration parameters, etc. with external system components (such as remote access and storage device 108). Finally, system control and analysis circuitry 168 may be communicatively coupled to various peripheral devices for facilitating operator interface and generating hard copies of reconstructed images. In the illustrated embodiment, these peripheral devices include a printer 174, a monitor 176, and a user interface 178, which includes devices such as a keyboard, a mouse, a touch screen (e.g., integral to the monitor 176), and the like.

[0038] Figure 2 1 is a schematic diagram of an RF coil assembly 180 (eg, an RF receive coil assembly) that may be disposed on a patient during an MRI scan. The RF coil assembly 180 may be used in an MRI system (eg, Figure 1100). As described in more detail below, the weighted blanket can be placed on a patient who already has an RF coil assembly 180 placed on them. The RF coil assembly 180 includes an RF coil 184 having a plurality of loops 186 (e.g., elements or channels). Each loop 186 is coupled to an electronics unit that is coupled to a coil interface cable. The coil interface cable of each of the loops 186 is coupled to an electrical connector interface or interface circuit 188 (e.g., a balun such as an integrated balun cable harness that can act as an RF trap). The electrical connector interface 188 is coupled (via cable 190) to a P connector 192 (e.g., a port connector) that enables the RF coil assembly 180 to be coupled (via a wired connection) to an interface of the MRI system that couples the imaging component to the processing component. In some embodiments, the RF coil assembly 180 can have no wired connection and can be configured to be utilized wirelessly with the MRI system during an MRI scan (e.g., for coupling the imaging component to the wireless component).

[0039] Each loop 186 may be composed of linked resonator elements coupled to a printed circuit board module (e.g., an electronics unit). Each electronics unit may include various components (e.g., a decoupling circuit, an impedance inverter circuit, and a preamplifier). The RF coil 184 may utilize an AIR® from General Electric Healthcare. TM The RF coil 184 is designed with a coil technology. This allows the RF coil 184 to be lightweight and flexible. Each loop 186 includes a ductile (e.g., flexible) conductor that can achieve complex and irregular surface contours. In some embodiments, each loop 186 is stretchable (e.g., due to a liquid metal conductor). Alternatively, each loop 186 may include a braided wire, a regular stranded wire, or a helical wire braided on an extendable non-conductive support or a meandering trace. In addition, the loops 186 of the RF coil 184 are transparent, thereby facilitating the signal-to-noise ratio.

[0040] The RF coil 184 is disposed within a flexible housing 194 (eg, a blanket). As depicted, the flexible housing 194 has a rectangular shape. In certain embodiments, the flexible housing 194 may have a square shape or other shapes.

[0041] Figure 3 is the use of MRI systems (e.g., Figure 1Schematic diagram of components of a weighted blanket 196 used during a scan with an MRI system 100 (e.g., FIG. 1 ). The weighted blanket 196 is MR compatible for use on a patient during an MRI scan. In some embodiments, the weighted blanket 196 is placed directly on the patient for use during an MRI scan. In some embodiments, the weighted blanket 196 is placed on a patient who has a body coil (e.g., an RF receive coil assembly 180) disposed thereon, such that the weighted blanket 196 is located between the body coil and the patient. The weighted blanket 196 includes an inner layer 198 made of a material that generates a non-proton signal and is non-distorting (i.e., does not distort the acquired image). The material that generates a non-proton signal and is non-distorting can be granular beads 199. In some embodiments, the granular beads 199 can be polycarbonate plastic beads (e.g., polycarbonate resin thermoplastic material beads, such as PTFE from General Electric). beads).

[0042] The weighted blanket 196 also includes a flexible woven fabric cover 200. The inner layer 198 is enclosed in the flexible woven fabric cover 200. The flexible woven fabric cover 200 includes a first layer 202 and a second layer 204, which surround (e.g., sandwich) the inner layer 198 between them. The first layer 202, the inner layer 198, and the second layer 204 are connected (e.g., sealed or sewn) together to form the weighted blanket 196. The first layer 202 and the second layer 204 can be made of fireproof and flame retardant fabrics. In particular, the first layer 202 and the second layer 204 can be made of V0 / V1 / V2 rated fabrics (relative to the flammability test standard UL 94). For example, the first layer 202 and the second layer 204 can be made of Omniweave from TenCate. TM Made.

[0043] In some embodiments, the first layer 202 and the second layer 204 can be sewn together in a pattern that forms pockets of granular material with the inner layer 198. In some embodiments, the flexible woven fabric cover 200 and the inner layer 198 can be coupled together in a pattern that maximizes weight distribution throughout the weighted blanket. In some embodiments, the flexible woven fabric cover 200 and the inner layer 198 can be in a pattern that distributes the weight in the weighted blanket 196 to align with an RF receive coil assembly (e.g., a weighted blanket 196 disposed on a patient) when the weighted blanket 196 is placed on the RF receive coil assembly. Figure 2In some embodiments, the flexible woven fabric cover 200 and the inner layer 198 are coupled together in a pattern that aligns the loops of the RF coil within the RF receive coil assembly 180 in the patient's body. In some embodiments, the flexible woven fabric cover 200 has one or more visible markings to properly orient the weighted blanket 196 relative to the RF receive coil assembly when the weighted blanket 196 is placed on the RF receive coil assembly, thereby ensuring that the weight within the weighted blanket 196 is aligned with the loops of the RF coil. In some embodiments, the flexible woven fabric cover 200 and the inner layer 198 are coupled together in a pattern that distributes the weight in the weighted blanket so that the loops of the RF coil within the RF receive coil assembly disposed on the patient are moved closer to the patient when the weighted blanket is placed on the RF receive coil assembly.

[0044] Figure 4 2 is a schematic diagram of components of a weighted blanket 196 (e.g., with cover 206) for use during a scan using an MRI system. Figure 3 As stated. Figure 4 As shown, the weighted blanket 196 includes a cover 206 (e.g., a removable cover). The cover 206 is made of fabric (e.g., the same material as the flexible woven fabric cover 200). The cover 206 is disposed around and surrounds the flexible woven fabric cover 200, wherein the inner layer 198 is enclosed in the flexible woven fabric cover. The cover 206 can be inexpensive and disposable. The use of the cover 206 can help keep the weighted blanket 196 clean. The cover 206 can include interesting and / or colorful features or images printed (e.g., screen printed) thereon. These features or images can keep the patient (e.g., a child) calm and / or distract during the MRI scan to keep the patient still. Figure 5 An example of a feature or image 208 that may be printed on a jacket 206 is shown. The feature or image 208 used on the jacket 206 may vary. In certain embodiments, the feature or image 208 may correspond to a theme within the scanning room.

[0045] As described above, the components of the weighted blanket 196 may be coupled (eg, sewn or sealed) together in certain patterns (eg, a checkerboard pattern). Figure 6 is a top view of a portion of weighted blanket 196 having a triangular pattern. Figure 6 In the embodiment, the flexible woven fabric cover 200 forms pockets 210 having a triangular shape. Granular material 199 (e.g., polycarbonate plastic beads) is disposed within these pockets 210. In certain embodiments, such as Figure 6 As depicted in , each pocket 210 is filled with granular beads 199. In certain embodiments, as Figure 7 As depicted in FIG. 1 , only some pockets 210 are filled with granular beads 199. In certain embodiments, beads 199 may be distributed among different pockets 210 to maximize the weight distribution of the entire weighted blanket 196.

[0046] Figure 8 is a top view of a portion of a weighted blanket 196 having a diamond pattern. Figure 8 In the embodiment of the weighted blanket 196, the flexible woven fabric cover 200 forms pockets 212 having a triangular shape. Granular material 199 (e.g., polycarbonate plastic beads) are disposed within these pockets 212. In some embodiments, as depicted, each pocket 212 is filled with granular beads 199. In some embodiments, only some pockets 212 are filled with granular beads 199. In some embodiments, the beads 199 can be distributed in different pockets 212 to maximize the weight distribution of the entire weighted blanket 196.

[0047] Fig. 9 is a top view of a portion of a weighted blanket 196 having a square pattern. Fig. 9 , the flexible woven fabric cover 200 forms pockets 214 having a square shape. Granular material 199 (e.g., polycarbonate plastic beads) are disposed within these pockets 212. In some embodiments, as depicted, each pocket 214 is filled with granular beads 199. In some embodiments, only some pockets 214 are filled with granular beads 199. In some embodiments, the beads 199 can be distributed in different pockets 214 to maximize the weight distribution of the entire weighted blanket 196.

[0048] Fig.10 21 is a schematic diagram illustrating the distribution of weight in the weighted blanket 196 (e.g., via the granular beads 199) relative to the RF coil assembly 180. In particular, the flexible woven fabric cover 200 and the inner layer 198 can be coupled together in a pattern that distributes the weight in the weighted blanket 196 to align with the loops or elements 186 of the RF coil 184 within the RF receive coil assembly 180 disposed on the patient 126 when the weighted blanket 196 is placed on the RF receive coil assembly 180. As depicted, the flexible woven fabric cover 200 and the inner layer 198 are coupled together in a pattern that distributes the weight in the weighted blanket 196 (e.g., via the granular beads 199) to move the loops or elements 186 of the RF coil 184 within the RF receive coil assembly 180 disposed on the patient 126 closer to the patient 126 (as shown by arrows 216) when the weighted blanket 196 is placed on the RF receive coil assembly 180. Pushing the loop or element 286 of the RF coil 184 within the RF receive coil assembly 180 closer to the body of the patient 126 provides for achieving optimal coil loading.

[0049] Fig.112 is a top view of a weighted blanket 196 with markings 218 for alignment. The flexible woven fabric cover 200 has one or more visible markings to properly orient the weighted blanket 196 relative to the RF receive coil assembly when the weighted blanket 196 is placed on the RF receive coil assembly, thereby ensuring that the weight within the weighted blanket 196 is aligned with the loop of the RF coil. As shown, the markings 218 on the flexible woven fabric cover 200 indicate the weighted area aligned with the loop of the RF coil. The number and location of the markings 218 and how the markings 218 are used for alignment can vary. For example, the markings 218 can indicate the corners of the weighted blanket 196 to align or orient relative to a specific portion of the RF receive coil assembly.

[0050] Fig.12 2 is a flow chart of a method 220 for manufacturing a weighted blanket. One or more steps of method 220 may be performed simultaneously or in a different order than depicted. The weighted blanket is MR compatible for use on a patient during an MRI scan. Method 220 includes providing a first layer and a second layer of a flexible woven fabric cover (block 222). The first layer and the second layer may be made of a fabric that is fire resistant and flame retardant. In particular, the first layer and the second layer may be made of a V0 / V1 / V2 rated fabric (relative to flammability test standard UL 94). For example, the first layer and the second layer may be made of Omniweave from TenCate. TM Made.

[0051] The method 220 also includes providing a material that generates a non-proton signal and does not distort (block 224). The material that generates a non-proton signal and does not distort can be a granular bead. In some embodiments, the granular bead can be a polycarbonate plastic bead (e.g., a polycarbonate resin thermoplastic material bead, such as a GE Healthcare 300 from General Electric). beads).

[0052] The method 220 also includes enclosing the non-proton signal generating and undistorting material between the first layer and the second layer (block 226). The first layer and the second layer may be sewn together in a pattern forming pockets having the non-proton signal generating and undistorting material disposed within the pockets.

[0053] In some embodiments, method 220 includes providing a cover (e.g., disposable and removable) (block 228). In some embodiments, method 220 includes placing a weighted blanket within the cover (block 230). The cover may include interesting and / or colorful features or images printed (e.g., screen printed) thereon. These features or images may calm and / or distract a patient (e.g., a child) during an MRI scan to keep the patient still.

[0054] Technical effects of the disclosed subject matter include providing a weighted blanket that is magnetic resonance compatible for use on a subject during a magnetic resonance imaging scan. The weighted blanket includes a flexible, fireproof, and flame-retardant woven fabric cover. The weighted blanket also includes a non-proton signal generating and non-distorting material enclosed within the flexible, fireproof, and flame-retardant woven fabric cover. Technical effects of the disclosed subject matter include patient comfort and reduced patient movement. Technical effects of the disclosed subject matter include reduced scan time and reduced image artifacts.

[0055] Reference is made to the technology presented and claimed herein and applied to physical and specific examples of a practical nature that clearly improves upon the present state of the art and, therefore, is not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. In addition, if any claim appended to the end of this specification contains one or more elements designated as "means for [performing] the function of ..." or "steps for [performing] the function of ...," it is intended that such elements be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. § 112(f). However, for any claim containing elements designated in any other manner, it is not intended that such elements be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. § 112(f).

[0056] This written description uses examples to disclose the subject matter, including the best mode, and also to enable those skilled in the art to practice the subject matter, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any included methods. The patentable scope of the subject matter is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insignificant differences from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A weighted blanket, comprising: Flexible woven fabric cover; and A non-proton signal generating and non-distorting material is enclosed within the flexible woven fabric enclosure, wherein the weighted blanket is magnetic resonance compatible for use on a subject during a magnetic resonance imaging scan.

2. The weighted blanket of claim 1, wherein the non-proton signal generating and non-distorting material comprises granular beads.

3. The weighted blanket of claim 2, wherein the granular beads comprise polycarbonate plastic beads.

4. The weighted blanket of claim 1, wherein the flexible woven fabric cover is made of a fire resistant and flame retardant material.

5. The weighted blanket of claim 1, further comprising a cover disposed about the flexible woven fabric shell, wherein the non-proton signal generating and non-distorting material is enclosed within the flexible woven fabric shell.

6. The weighted blanket of claim 5, wherein an image is printed on the cover, the image configured to calm or distract the subject.

7. The weighted blanket of claim 1, wherein the flexible woven fabric cover and the non-proton signal generating and non-distorting material are coupled together in a pattern that maximizes weight distribution throughout the weighted blanket.

8. The weighted blanket of claim 1 , wherein the flexible woven fabric cover and the non-proton signal generating and non-distorting material are coupled together in a pattern that distributes weight in the weighted blanket into alignment with a loop of a radio frequency (RF) coil within an RF receive coil assembly disposed on the subject when the weighted blanket is placed on the RF receive coil assembly.

9. The weighted blanket of claim 8, wherein the flexible woven fabric cover has one or more visible markings to properly orient the weighted blanket relative to the RF receive coil assembly when the weighted blanket is placed on the RF receive coil assembly to ensure that the weight within the weighted blanket is aligned with the loop of the RF coil.

10. The weighted blanket of claim 1 , wherein the flexible woven fabric cover and the non-proton signal generating and non-distorting material are coupled together in a pattern that distributes weight in the weighted blanket in a manner that causes loops of a radio frequency (RF) coil within an RF receive coil assembly disposed on the subject to move closer to the subject when the weighted blanket is placed on the RF receive coil assembly.

11. A weighted blanket, comprising: a flexible, flame-resistant and flame-retardant woven fabric cover; and Polycarbonate plastic beads enclosed within the flexible and flame resistant and fire retardant woven fabric cover, wherein the weighted blanket is magnetic resonance compatible for use on a subject during a magnetic resonance imaging scan.

12. The weighted blanket of claim 11, wherein the polycarbonate plastic beads are aprotic and non-distorting.

13. The weighted blanket of claim 11 further comprising a cover disposed about the flexible fire resistant and flame retardant woven fabric cover, wherein the polycarbonate plastic beads are enclosed within the flexible fire resistant and flame retardant woven fabric cover.

14. The weighted blanket of claim 13, wherein an image is printed on the cover, the image configured to calm or distract the subject.

15. The weighted blanket of claim 11, wherein the flexible and fire resistant and flame retardant woven fabric cover and the polycarbonate plastic beads are coupled together in a pattern that maximizes weight distribution throughout the weighted blanket.

16. The weighted blanket of claim 11, wherein the flexible and flame resistant and fire retardant woven fabric cover and the polycarbonate plastic beads are coupled together in a pattern that distributes weight in the weighted blanket to align with a loop of a radio frequency (RF) coil within an RF receive coil assembly disposed on the subject when the weighted blanket is placed on the RF receive coil assembly.

17. The weighted blanket of claim 16, wherein the flexible, flame resistant and fire retardant woven fabric cover has one or more visible markings to properly orient the weighted blanket relative to the RF receive coil assembly when the weighted blanket is placed on the RF receive coil assembly to ensure that the weight within the weighted blanket is aligned with the loop of the RF coil.

18. The weighted blanket of claim 11, wherein the flexible and flame resistant and fire retardant woven fabric cover and the polycarbonate plastic beads are coupled together in a pattern that distributes weight in the weighted blanket to cause loops of a radio frequency (RF) coil within an RF receive coil assembly disposed on the subject to move closer to the subject when the weighted blanket is placed on the RF receive coil assembly.

19. A method for making a weighted blanket, the method comprising: providing a first layer and a second layer of a flexible woven fabric; Providing materials that generate non-proton signals without distortion; as well as The non-proton signal generating and non-distorting material is enclosed between the first layer and the second layer, wherein the weighted blanket is magnetic resonance compatible for use on a subject during a magnetic resonance imaging scan.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the flexible woven fabric cover is made of a fire resistant and flame retardant material and the non-proton signal generating and non-distorting material comprises polycarbonate plastic beads.

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