Magnetic resonance imaging magnet with predetermined power control

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a method of controlling a magnetic resonance imaging system operable in a drive mode, the method comprising: receiving (200) hospital workflow parameters, the hospital workflow parameters comprising scheduling data describing a planned use of the magnetic resonance imaging system; determining (202) a usage period and an idle period of the magnetic resonance imaging system using the scheduling data; controlling (204) a magnet power supply to ramp down electrical power to a magnetic resonance imaging magnet during the idle period to place the magnetic resonance imaging magnet in a power saving mode; and control (206) the magnet power supply to continuously supply the electrical power to the magnetic resonance imaging magnet during the in-use period to operate the magnetic resonance imaging magnet in a drive mode. A magnetic resonance imaging system operable in a drive mode is also disclosed, comprising a computing system configured to perform the method.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to magnetic resonance imaging, and more particularly to magnetic resonance imaging magnets operating in drive mode. Background Technology

[0002] Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners use large static magnetic fields (BO fields or master magnetic fields) to align the nuclear spins of atoms as part of the process of creating images within a patient's body. Traditionally, MRI scanners use superconducting coils that are powered by a power source, which then removes the power. These magnets operate in a so-called continuous mode. Although no additional current is required, this type of MRI magnet uses a cryostat to hold the superconducting windings in place, which can be expensive.

[0003] Some newer magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) magnets use superconducting coils made of high-temperature superconductors (HTS), such as MgB2, which have less stringent cooling requirements. These magnets can operate in a so-called drive mode, in which a large current is continuously supplied to the superconducting coil to maintain the main magnetic field. Overall, these newer magnetic designs have shown the potential to reduce the overall operating costs of MRI systems.

[0004] The journal article Takeda, Y. et al., “Review of the temporal stability of the magnetic field for ultra-high field superconducting magnets with a particular focus on superconducting joints between HTS conductors” (Superconductor Science and Technology 35.4 (2022): 043002), discloses that superconducting magnets used in applications such as magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) require significant temporal magnetic field stability, which can be achieved when MRI and NMR magnets operate in continuous current mode (continuous mode) using superconducting joints. However, ultra-high field MRI and NMR magnets sometimes operate in driven mode. Here, we analyze the temporal magnetic field drift and fluctuations observed in MRI and NMR magnets operating in driven mode and explore efficient methods for stabilizing temporal magnetic field fluctuations. Substantial progress has been made in superconducting joints between high-temperature superconductors (HTS) over the past decade. These superconducting joints enable the development of continuous mode ultra-high field magnets using HTS coils. This article reviews superconducting junction technology for HTS conductors and describes the results of continuous-mode operation achieved using a mid-field NMR magnet with HTS coils. Recent advances in HTS superconducting junctions regarding bonding methods, superconducting properties, and future prospects are particularly highlighted. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention provides medical systems, computer programs, and methods as described in the independent claims. Embodiments are given in the dependent claims.

[0006] In one aspect, the present invention provides a medical system comprising a magnetic resonance imaging magnet for a magnetic resonance imaging system. The magnetic resonance imaging magnet includes a superconducting winding. The medical system also includes a magnet power supply configured to provide electrical power to the superconducting winding. The magnet power supply is configured to operate the magnetic resonance imaging magnet in a drive mode.

[0007] The medical system may also include a memory storing machine-executable instructions. The medical system also includes a computing system. Execution of the machine-executable instructions causes the computing system to repeatedly receive scheduling data describing the planned use of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system; in other words, hospital workflow parameters for decision-making. Execution of the machine-executable instructions also causes the computing system to repeatedly determine the usage periods and idle periods of the MRI system using the scheduling data. Execution of the machine-executable instructions further causes the computing system to repeatedly control the magnet power supply to ramp down the electrical power to the MRI magnet during idle periods, thereby placing the MRI magnet in a power-saving mode. Execution of the machine-executable instructions also causes the computing system to repeatedly control the magnet power supply to continuously supply electrical power to the MRI magnet during usage periods, thereby operating the MRI magnet in drive mode.

[0008] This embodiment can be advantageous because it can significantly reduce the amount of electrical energy required to operate the MRI magnet in drive mode. Furthermore, by scheduling when to ramp up and down the electrical power to the MRI magnet, it ensures that the MRI magnet is available when needed while reducing power consumption. Utilizing high-temperature superconducting (HTS) technology, if the MR cryostat operates at 20K instead of 4K as in conventional systems, cooling power can be saved. The fabrication of reliable and economical durable connectors required for continuous magnet operation is very difficult, making drive-mode magnet operation a practical alternative. In this case, the magnet power supply can be permanently connected to the magnet and provide a constant current.

[0009] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of operating a medical system. The medical system includes a magnetic resonance imaging magnet for a magnetic resonance imaging system. The magnetic resonance imaging magnet includes a superconducting winding. The medical system also includes a magnet power supply configured to provide electrical power (current) to the superconducting winding. The magnet power supply is configured to operate the magnetic resonance imaging magnet in a drive mode.

[0010] The method includes repeatedly receiving scheduling data describing the planned use of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system; in other words, hospital workflow parameters used for ramp-up decisions. The method also includes repeatedly using the scheduling data to determine the usage periods and idle periods of the MRI system. The method further includes repeatedly controlling the magnet power supply to ramp down the electrical power to the MRI magnet during idle periods, thereby placing the MRI magnet in a power-saving mode. The method also includes repeatedly controlling the magnet power supply to continuously supply electrical power to the MRI magnet during usage periods, thereby operating the MRI magnet in a drive mode.

[0011] In another aspect, the present invention provides a computer program including machine-executable instructions executed by a computing system configured to control a medical system. The medical system includes a magnetic resonance imaging magnet for a magnetic resonance imaging system. The magnetic resonance imaging magnet includes a superconducting winding. The medical system also includes a magnet power supply configured to provide electrical power to the superconducting winding. The magnet power supply is configured to operate the magnetic resonance imaging magnet in a drive mode.

[0012] The execution of machine-executable instructions causes the computing system to repeatedly receive scheduling data describing the planned use of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system. The execution of the machine-executable instructions also causes the computing system to repeatedly determine the usage periods and idle periods of the MRI system using the scheduling data. The execution of the machine-executable instructions further causes the computing system to repeatedly control the magnet power supply to ramp down the electrical power to the MRI magnet during the idle periods, thereby placing the MRI magnet in a power-saving mode. The execution of the machine-executable instructions also causes the computing system to repeatedly control the magnet power supply to continuously supply electrical power to the MRI magnet during the usage periods, thereby operating the MRI magnet in drive mode. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described below by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 An example of a medical system is shown; Figure 2 Instructions for use are shown. Figure 1 A flowchart of the methods used in medical systems; Figure 3 This illustrates another example of a medical system; Figure 4 Instructions for use are shown. Figure 3 A flowchart of the methods used in medical systems. Detailed Implementation

[0014] To facilitate and understand the principles of this disclosure, reference will now be made to embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and these embodiments will be described using specific language. However, it should be understood that this is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Any changes and further modifications to the described apparatus, systems, and methods, as well as any further application of the principles of this disclosure, are fully contemplated and included in this disclosure, as would normally occur to those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains. In particular, it is entirely contemplated that features, components, and / or steps described with respect to one embodiment may be combined with features, components, and / or steps described with respect to other embodiments of this disclosure. However, for the sake of brevity, multiple iterations of these combinations will not be described separately. Features described with respect to a system may be implemented in a corresponding manner in a method, a computer-implemented method, and / or a computer program product.

[0015] Elements with the same number in these figures are equivalent elements or perform the same function. If they are functionally equivalent, elements that have been discussed previously will not necessarily be discussed in the following figures.

[0016] In drive mode, electrical power is continuously supplied to the magnetic resonance imaging magnet. In some examples, the superconducting winding can be a high-temperature superconducting winding.

[0017] In another example, the magnet power supply includes a battery. The magnet power supply is configured to store electrical power from the MRI magnet in the battery during ramp-up. In some examples, the electrical power stored in the battery can then be used as power to ramp up the MRI magnet to operate it in drive mode. The electrical power stored in the magnet from ramp-up can also be used to maintain a continuous power supply to the magnet during the usage period. The advantage of storing electrical power in the battery is that the power is not wasted and power consumption in medical systems can be reduced.

[0018] In another example, the magnet power supply is configured to at least partially utilize a battery to supply electrical power to the magnetic resonance imaging magnet. This can be advantageous because it provides a means of utilizing the power consumption required to keep the magnet in a driven mode.

[0019] In another example, the medical system also includes an emergency power system. This emergency power system includes batteries. For instance, an emergency power system can be used to supply power to a medical facility in an emergency. For example, in the event of an emergency with severe power loss, an MRI magnet can dump its power into a battery, which can then be used to power other critical components or services in the medical facility or hospital.

[0020] In another example, the execution of machine-executable instructions also causes the computing system to receive a facility alarm from the emergency power system. The execution of these machine-executable instructions further causes the computing system, in response to the facility alarm, to control the magnet power supply to ramp up the electrical power to the MRI magnet, thereby supplying power to the battery. In this example, the facility alarm causes electrical power to be transferred from the MRI magnet to the battery. This enables the MRI magnet to be automatically powered in an emergency.

[0021] In another example, the medical system also includes a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system. The MRI system includes an MRI magnet. The memory also stores pulse sequence commands. Execution of machine-executable instructions allows the computing system to control the MRI system using the MRI magnet to acquire k-space data while the MRI magnet is operating in drive mode, by utilizing the pulse sequence commands. This example can be beneficial because a magnet generally in drive mode may require fewer maintenance steps, such as providing cryogenic fluids and other costly maintenance. The use of a scheduling system can provide cost-effective use of the MRI system.

[0022] In another example, the execution of machine-executable instructions also enables the computing system to reconstruct magnetic resonance images based on k-space data.

[0023] In another example, the execution of machine-executable instructions also causes the computing system to control the magnet power supply to ramp down the electrical power to the MRI magnet after the acquisition of k-space data is complete, thereby putting the MRI magnet into a power-saving mode. This example could be beneficial because it could lead to the MRI magnet automatically shutting off power, thus automatically saving power.

[0024] In another example, the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) magnet includes a magnetic field sensor configured to measure the magnetic field strength. Execution of machine-executable instructions also causes the computing system to repeatedly receive the magnetic field strength from the magnetic field sensor. Furthermore, execution of the machine-executable instructions causes the computing system to repeatedly control the magnet power supply to regulate the electrical power supplied to the MRI magnet, ensuring the magnetic field strength remains within a predetermined range. This example may be advantageous for several reasons. Measuring the magnetic field strength provides confidence in the proper functioning of the MRI magnet. The use of the magnetic field strength provides feedback control over the magnet power supply, allowing the MRI magnet to rise to a usable state more quickly. This, in turn, helps to conserve electrical power when operating the MRI magnet. Even outside the imaging zone or the area where MRI imaging occurs, the specific magnetic field of an MRI system can be constant. For example, the magnetic field sensor can be placed inside the magnet's bore, but not in the area typically used for imaging. This allows the magnetic field sensor to be easily integrated into the MRI system.

[0025] Magnetic field sensors can be implemented in different ways. For example, fiber-optic magnetic field sensors or field sensors that use NMR measurements can be used.

[0026] In another example, the step of receiving scheduling data includes receiving a fixed operating time for the magnetic resonance imaging magnet. For example, this could be the normal operating time when the magnetic resonance imaging system is scheduled to be available.

[0027] In another example, the step of receiving scheduling data includes receiving an appointment for a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination using the MRI system. For example, if the MRI system is not used frequently, scheduling the power on and off of the MRI magnet during the appointment period can save more electrical power.

[0028] In another example, the medical system includes a manual power control configured to manually override the control of the magnet power supply to either reduce the electrical power to the MRI magnet or continuously supply electrical power to the MRI magnet to operate it in drive mode. The manual power control can be used to manually increase or decrease the electrical power to the MRI magnet. This can be useful when the magnet has already been reduced and it is desired to use the MRI system before an examination is scheduled. In some cases, when an emergency occurs, the manual power control can be used to reduce the electrical power to the MRI magnet and place it in a safe mode where the magnetic field has been significantly reduced or eliminated.

[0029] In another example, during idle periods, the electrical power in the MRI magnet is reduced to zero. This can be beneficial because it saves more power. It also facilitates cleaning the room where the MRI magnet is located or during routine maintenance. The magnetic field generated by the MRI magnet can be dangerous. Reducing the electrical power to zero during idle periods also increases the safety of the MRI magnet.

[0030] In another example, during idle periods, the electrical power supplied to the MRI magnet is reduced by 80% to 50% compared to when the MRI magnet is in drive mode. By simply reducing the power, it provides a means to ramp up the electrical power and bring the MRI magnet into operating mode more quickly.

[0031] In another example, the superconducting winding is formed of MgB2 (magnesium diboride).

[0032] In another example, the superconducting winding is formed of YBCO (yttrium barium copper oxide).

[0033] In another example, the superconducting winding is formed of ReBCO (rare earth barium copper oxide).

[0034] In another example, the superconducting winding is formed of BSCCO (bismuth strontium calcium copper oxide).

[0035] In another example, the superconducting winding is made of BSCCO2212(Bi2Sr2CaCu2O) 8+x )form.

[0036] In another example, the magnet power supply is permanently connected to the superconducting windings. In conventional MRI systems, the power supply is only connected during the ramp-up of the MRI magnet. The connection to the power supply is then removed to reduce heat transfer to the superconducting windings. When the magnet is operating in what is known as drive mode, the power supply must be continuously attached to provide electrical power.

[0037] Figure 1 An example of a medical system 100 is shown. The medical system is shown as including a magnetic resonance imaging magnet 102. In this example, the magnetic resonance imaging magnet 102 is a cylindrical magnet having a bore 104 passing through it. Although a cylindrical magnet is shown, other types of magnets, such as open magnets, can also be used. When excited, the magnetic resonance imaging magnet 102 generates a B0 or ​​main magnetic field within an imaging region 106. The imaging region 106 is a region with a magnetic field strength and uniformity sufficient to image an object within the imaging region 106. The magnet 102 has a cryostat 108 containing a superconducting winding 110. A magnet power supply 112 with a permanent connection 114 is present to supply electrical power to the superconducting winding 110. The magnet power supply 112 is configured to operate in a so-called drive mode, wherein the superconducting winding 110 is continuously powered by the magnet power supply 112 during operation.

[0038] The magnet power supply 112 is configured to ramp up or ramp down the electrical power supplied to the superconducting winding 110. The medical system 100 is shown including an optional battery 116, which can be used to store electrical power received from the superconducting winding 110 when the superconducting winding 110 is de-energized. The medical system 100 is also shown including an optional emergency power supply 118. The optional emergency power supply 118 shares the battery 116 with the medical system 100. The optional emergency power supply 118 may also include an emergency power controller 120. In some cases, the emergency power controller 120 is capable of signaling the magnet power supply 112 to de-energize the magnet 102 and store energy in the battery 116.

[0039] The medical system 100 is also shown as including a computer 130. The computer 130 is shown as including a computing system 132 communicating with a hardware interface 134, an optional manual power control 136, and a memory 138. The hardware interface 134 enables the computing system 132 to communicate with and / or control other components of the medical system 100.

[0040] Optional manual power control 136 may be, for example, a user interface, or a manual switch or controller, enabling the operator to remotely control the magnet power supply 112 to ramp up or ramp down the power supplied to the superconducting winding 110. This can be useful in various situations. If the magnet 102 is currently de-energized, the manual power control 136 can be used to put the medical system 100 into operation or use. In the event of an emergency and if it is necessary to cut off the power to the superconducting winding 110, the manual power control 136 can be used to cause the magnet power supply 112 to draw power from the superconducting winding 110. This can be very useful in emergency situations where the main magnetic field needs to be cut off.

[0041] Memory 138 is intended to represent various types of memory accessible to computing system 132. Memory may include volatile and non-volatile memory storage devices and components. In some embodiments, memory may be based on or may rely on cloud-based data stored in a logical pool on different commodity storage servers located locally or in a data center managed by a third-party cloud provider. Memory 138 is shown as containing machine-executable instructions 140. Machine-executable instructions 140 enable computing system 132 to perform various control and computational tasks. Memory 138 is also shown as containing received scheduling data 142. For example, it may have been received using user interface input or via a network connection. Memory 138 is also shown as containing usage periods 144 and idle periods 146 determined from scheduling data 142, in other words, based on hospital workflow parameters used for slope decision-making. Usage periods 144 and idle periods 146 can be used to determine when to switch electrical power to the superconducting winding 110.

[0042] The memory is also shown to contain an optional measured magnetic field strength 150 that has been measured using the magnetic field sensor 122. This can be compared to a predetermined value range 152. For example, if the measured magnetic field strength is too low or below the predetermined value range 152, this can be used as a control loop to increase the electrical power to the superconducting winding 110. Similarly, if the measured magnetic field strength 150 is too strong or too large and is outside or above the predetermined value range 152, the electrical power to the superconducting winding 110 can be reduced. This can be particularly useful in terms of the magnetic field in the rapidly stabilizing imaging region 106 as the electrical power of the superconducting winding 110 is switched on and off between use and idle periods.

[0043] Figure 2 The operation is shown. Figure 1The flowchart illustrates a method for the medical system 100. In step 200, scheduling data 142 is received; in other words, hospital workflow parameters for scalar decision-making are received. The scheduling data describes the planned use of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system. In step 202, the scheduling data 142 is used to determine a usage period 144. In step 202, the scheduling data 142 is also used to determine an idle period 146. In step 204, the magnet power supply 112 is controlled to scalp down the power supplied to the MRI magnet 102 during the idle period 146 to place the MRI magnet in a power-saving mode. Reducing the power supplied to the MRI magnet means reducing the power supplied to the superconducting winding 110. In step 206, the magnet power supply 112 is controlled to continuously supply power to the MRI magnet 102 during the usage period 144 to operate the MRI magnet in drive mode. Supplying power to the MRI magnet 102 means supplying power to the superconducting winding 110. Steps 200, 202, 204, and 206 can be executed sequentially and in different orders.

[0044] Although the current-carrying link in a drive-mode MRI magnet involves small resistances, some power loss still occurs. The sum of the lead and connection resistances will reach several milliohms, and the power supply itself will have AC / DC conversion losses. When MRI is not in use, these can be considered unnecessary standby losses. For a current of approximately 250 A, their power consumption will be approximately 500 W.

[0045] like Figure 2 As shown, these power losses can be reduced by turning off the magnet power supply at planned intervals when the scanner is not in use, such as at night. For example, the idea is to save electrical power at night. Therefore, the magnet power supply would be turned off. MgB2-based magnets can be raised and lowered within minutes, so theoretically, they could be lowered at the end of the day and raised again in the morning, thus saving hundreds of Wh / h at night. As an additional benefit, maintenance and cleaning activities can be performed during the time the magnet is off without any limitations or harm caused by the magnetic field.

[0046] However, this will result in the loss of energy stored in the magnetic field of the magnet. For a 1.5 T magnet, this would be approximately 1 kWh. Therefore, this mitigation scheme is suitable for shutdown times exceeding 3 hours. Another idea to mitigate this loss (i.e., also conserve stored energy) is to use a battery 116 that can sustain the charging current exiting the sloping magnet. In this case, energy is simply transferred to the battery and can be reused later. For this purpose, the battery does not need to be independent. Such a cost would be unreasonable. For example, it would be a perfect synergy if it could be combined with an uninterruptible power supply or emergency power system 118.

[0047] The supplementary intelligent planning system analyzes the system's scheduling and potential anticipated activities, providing optimized timing for the system's subsequent descent and ascent. To this end, several data sources can be analyzed (patient schedules, new admissions to the emergency room (which may require imaging), and monitoring / recording data from the MR system).

[0048] Additionally, an "emergency start button" (manual power control 136) can be implemented, which allows the magnet to tilt as quickly as possible and automatically prepares or performs all necessary subsequent calibrations and preparations so that patients can be scanned without delay in an emergency, even though the magnet initially tilts down.

[0049] Figure 3 Another example of a medical system 300 is shown. Medical system 300 is similar to... Figure 1 The medical system 100 depicted includes a magnetic resonance imaging system 302. A magnet 102 and a magnet power supply 112 are part of the magnetic resonance imaging system 302.

[0050] An image region 106 contains a field of view 304 for acquiring k-space data. Within the bore 104 of the magnet 102, there is also a magnetic field gradient coil 306 for generating a gradient magnetic field during k-space data acquisition. The magnetic field gradient coil 306 is connected to a magnetic field gradient power supply 308. Within the bore 104 of the magnet 102, there is also a radio frequency coil 310 connected to a receiver 312.

[0051] Subject 320 is supported by subject support 322 and is shown partially within imaging area 106. By way of example only, field of view 306 is positioned above the chest region of subject 320.

[0052] The magnet power supply 112, the magnetic field sensor controller 124, the magnetic field gradient coil power supply 308, and the transceiver 312 are shown connected to the hardware interface 134.

[0053] Memory 138 is shown to also include pulse sequence commands 330. Pulse sequence commands 330 are commands or data that can be converted into such commands, capable of controlling various components of the magnetic resonance imaging system 302 to acquire k-space data. Memory 138 is also shown to include k-space data 332. Memory 138 is further shown to include a magnetic resonance image 334 reconstructed from the k-space data 332. Similar to... Figure 1 In some embodiments, the memory may be based on or may rely on cloud-based data stored in logical pools of different commodity storage service servers located locally or managed by a third-party cloud provider.

[0054] Figure 4 Includes a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a medical system 300. (For example...) Figure 2As shown, steps 200, 202, 204, and 206 are executed. In step 400, a magnetic field strength 150 is received from the magnetic field sensor 122 and the magnetic field sensor controller 124. In step 402, the magnet power supply is controlled to adjust the electrical power supplied to the magnetic resonance imaging magnet 102 so that the magnetic field strength 150 is within a predetermined value range 152. This helps ensure that the magnetic field within the imaging region 106 has the correct value and is stable. In step 404, k-space data 332 is acquired by controlling the magnetic resonance imaging system 302 using pulse sequence commands 330. In step 406, a magnetic resonance image 334 is reconstructed based on the k-space data.

[0055] It should be understood that one or more of the foregoing examples or embodiments of the present invention may be combined, as long as the combined embodiments are not mutually exclusive.

[0056] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, aspects of the present invention can be embodied as apparatus, method, or computer program product. Therefore, aspects of the present invention can take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, microcode, etc.), or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects, all of which are generally referred to herein as “circuit,” “module,” or “system.” Furthermore, aspects of the present invention can take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer-readable media having computer-executable code embodied thereon.

[0057] Any combination of one or more computer-readable media can be used. A computer-readable medium can be a computer-readable signal medium or a computer-readable storage medium. As used herein, "computer-readable storage medium" includes any tangible storage medium capable of storing instructions executable by a processor or computing system of a computing device. A computer-readable storage medium can be referred to as a computer-readable non-transitory storage medium. A computer-readable storage medium can also be referred to as a tangible computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, a computer-readable storage medium is also capable of storing data accessible by a computing system of a computing device. Examples of computer-readable storage media include, but are not limited to: floppy disks, magnetic hard disk drives, solid-state drives, flash memory, USB thumb drives, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), optical disks, magneto-optical disks, and register files of computing systems. Examples of optical disks include optical discs (CDs) and digital versatile discs (DVDs), such as CD-ROMs, CD-RWs, CD-Rs, DVD-ROMs, DVD-RWs, or DVD-R discs. The term computer-readable storage medium also refers to various types of recording media accessible by a computer device via a network or communication link. For example, data can be retrieved via a modem, the Internet, or a local area network. Computer-executable code contained on a computer-readable medium may be transmitted using any suitable medium, including but not limited to wireless, wired, fiber optic cable, RF, or any suitable combination thereof.

[0058] Computer-readable signal media may include, for example, data signals propagated in baseband or as part of a carrier wave, containing computer-executable code. Such propagated signals 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 may transmit, propagate, or transfer a program used by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0059] "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 computing system. "Computer storage device" 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, and vice versa.

[0060] As used herein, "computing system" includes electronic components capable of executing programs or machine-executable instructions or computer-executable code. References to computing systems that include examples of "computing systems" should be interpreted as potentially encompassing more than one computing system or processing core. A computing system can be, for example, a multi-core processor. A computing system can also refer to a collection of computing systems within a single computer system or distributed across multiple computer systems. The term computing system should also be interpreted as potentially referring to a collection or network of computing devices, each including a processor or computing system. Machine-executable code or instructions can be executed by multiple computing systems or processors, which may be within the same computing device or even distributed across multiple computing devices.

[0061] Machine-executable instructions or computer-executable code may include instructions or programs that cause a processor or other computing system to perform one aspect of the invention. Computer-executable code for performing the operations of the aspects of the invention may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including object-oriented programming languages ​​(such as Java, Smalltalk, C++, etc.) and conventional procedural programming languages ​​(such as the "C" programming language or similar programming languages), and compiled into machine-executable instructions. In some cases, the computer-executable code may be in the form of a high-level language or a pre-compiled form, and may be used in conjunction with an interpreter that generates machine-executable instructions on the spot. In other cases, the machine-executable instructions or computer-executable code may be in the form of a programmable gate array.

[0062] Computer executable code can execute entirely on the user's computer, partially on the user's computer, as a standalone software package, partially on the user's computer and partially on a remote computer, or entirely on a remote computer or server. In the latter case, the remote computer can be connected to the user's computer via any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or it can be connected to an external computer (e.g., via the Internet using an Internet service provider).

[0063] Aspects of the invention are described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of the invention. It should be understood that each block or portion of a block in a flowchart, illustration, and / or block diagram may be implemented, where applicable, by computer program instructions in the form of computer-executable code. It should also be understood that combinations of blocks from different flowcharts, illustrations, and / or block diagrams may be combined, without mutual exclusion. These computer program instructions may be provided to a computing system of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, executable via the computing system of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions / actions specified in one or more blocks of the flowchart and / or block diagram.

[0064] These machine-executable instructions or computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable medium that can instruct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus or other device to operate in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium produce an article of writing comprising instructions that implement the functions / actions specified in one or more boxes of a flowchart and / or block diagram.

[0065] Machine-executable instructions or computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus or other device to perform a series of operational steps on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other device, thereby producing a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions, which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus, provide a process for implementing the functions / actions specified in one or more boxes of a flowchart and / or block diagram.

[0066] The term "user interface" as used here refers to an interface that allows a user or operator to interact with a computer or computer system. A "user interface" can also be called a "human-machine interface device." A user interface can provide information or data to and / or receive information or data from an operator. A user interface enables input from an operator to be received by the computer and provides output from the computer to the user. In other words, a user interface allows an operator to control or manipulate the computer, and the interface allows the computer to indicate the effects of the operator's control or manipulation. Displaying data or information on a monitor or graphical user interface is an example of providing information to an operator. Receiving data via a keyboard, mouse, trackball, touchpad, pointing stick, graphics tablet, joystick, game controller, webcam, headset, pedal, wired gloves, remote control, and accelerometer are all examples of user interface components that enable the receiving of information or data from an operator.

[0067] As used herein, "hardware interface" includes interfaces that enable a computer system to interact with and / or control external computing devices and / or devices. A hardware interface may allow the computing system to send control signals or instructions to external computing devices and / or devices. A hardware interface may also enable the computing system to exchange data with external computing devices and / or devices. Examples of hardware interfaces include, but are not limited to: Universal Serial Bus (USB), IEEE 1394 port, parallel port, IEEE 1284 port, serial port, RS-232 port, IEEE-488 port, Bluetooth connectivity, wireless LAN connectivity, TCP / IP connectivity, Ethernet connectivity, control voltage interface, MIDI interface, analog input interface, and digital input interface.

[0068] As used herein, "display" or "display device" includes output devices or user interfaces suitable for displaying images or data. A display may output visual, audio, and / or tactile data. Examples of displays include, but are not limited to: computer monitors, television screens, touchscreens, tactile electronic displays, Braille screens, etc. Cathode ray tubes (CRTs), storage tubes, bistable displays, electronic paper, vector displays, flat panel displays, vacuum fluorescent displays (VFs), light-emitting diode (LED) displays, electroluminescent displays (ELDs), plasma display panels (PDPs), liquid crystal displays (LCDs), organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays, projectors, and head-mounted displays.

[0069] Although the invention has been shown and described in detail in the accompanying drawings and the foregoing description, such illustrations and descriptions are to be considered illustrative or exemplary, and not restrictive; the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments.

[0070] By studying the accompanying drawings, disclosure, and claims, those skilled in the art can understand and implement other variations of the disclosed embodiments in practicing the claimed invention. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the quantifiers "a" or "an" do not exclude multiples. A single processor or other unit can perform the functions of several items recited in the claims. The fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not mean that a combination of these measures cannot be advantageous. Computer programs can be stored / distributed on suitable media, such as optical storage media or solid-state media provided with or as part of other hardware, but can also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunications systems. Any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

[0071] K-space data are defined in this paper as the recording measurement of radio frequency signals emitted by atomic spins using the antenna of a magnetic resonance imaging device during a magnetic resonance imaging scan.

[0072] Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images, or MR images, are defined in this paper as two-dimensional or three-dimensional visualizations of reconstructed anatomical data contained within magnetic resonance imaging data. Such visualizations can be performed using a computer.

Claims

1. A medical system (100, 300) comprising: a magnet (102) for a magnetic resonance imaging system (302), wherein the magnet comprises superconducting windings (110); a magnet power supply (112) configured to provide electrical power to the superconducting windings, wherein the magnet power supply is configured to operate the magnet in a drive mode; a computing system (132) configured to: receive (200) hospital workflow parameters, the hospital workflow parameters comprising scheduling data (142) describing planned usage of the magnetic resonance imaging system; determine (202) usage periods (144) and idle periods (146) of the magnetic resonance imaging system using the scheduling data; control (204) the magnet power supply to ramp down electrical power to the magnet during the idle periods, thereby placing the magnet in a power saving mode; and control (206) the magnet power supply to continuously supply the electrical power to the magnet during the usage periods, thereby operating the magnet in the drive mode.

2. The medical system of claim 1, wherein, the magnet power supply comprises a battery (116), wherein the magnet power supply is configured to store electrical power from the magnet in the battery during ramp down.

3. The medical system of claim 2, wherein, the medical system further comprises an emergency power supply system (118), wherein the emergency power supply system comprises the battery.

4. The medical system of claim 3, wherein, the computing system is configured to: receive a facility alert from the emergency power supply system; and in response to the facility alert, control the magnet power supply to ramp down electrical power to the magnet to supply electrical power to the battery.

5. The medical system of any of the preceding claims, wherein, the medical system further comprises the magnetic resonance imaging system (302), and wherein the computing system is configured to acquire (404) k-space data (332) using the magnet by controlling the magnetic resonance imaging system with pulse sequence commands (330) when the magnet is operated in the drive mode.

6. The medical system of claim 5, wherein, the computing system is configured to control the magnet power supply to ramp down electrical power to the magnet, thereby placing the magnet in a power saving mode, after acquisition of the k-space data is complete.

7. The medical system of any of the preceding claims, wherein, the medical system comprises a magnetic field sensor (122, 124) configured to measure a magnetic field strength (150) of the magnet, wherein the computing system is configured to: receive (400) the magnetic field strength from the magnetic field sensor; control (402) the magnet power supply to adjust electrical power supplied to the magnet such that the magnetic field strength is within a predetermined value range (152).

8. The medical system of any of the preceding claims, wherein, the step of receiving scheduling data comprises any of: a fixed operating time of the magnetic resonance imaging magnet; an appointment for a magnetic resonance imaging examination using the magnetic resonance imaging system; and a combination thereof.

9. The medical system of any of the preceding claims, wherein, the medical system comprises a manual power supply control (136) configured to manually override control of the magnet power supply to ramp down electrical power to the magnet, or to continuously supply the electrical power to the magnet to operate the magnet in a drive mode.

10. The medical system of any of the preceding claims, wherein, one of: during the idle period, the electrical power supplied to the magnet is reduced to zero; or during the idle period, the electrical power supplied to the magnet is reduced by 80% to 50% compared to when the magnet is in drive mode.

11. The medical system of any of the preceding claims, wherein, The superconducting winding comprises any one of the following materials: MgB2, YBCO, ReBCO, BSCCO, and BSCCO2212.

12. The medical system of any of the preceding claims, wherein, The magnet power supply is permanently connected (114) to the superconducting winding.

13. A method of controlling a magnetic resonance imaging system operable in a drive mode, comprising: receiving (200) hospital workflow parameters, the hospital workflow parameters comprising scheduling data describing planned usage of the magnetic resonance imaging system; determining (202) usage periods and idle periods of the magnetic resonance imaging system using the scheduling data; controlling (204) a magnet power supply to ramp down electrical power to a magnetic resonance imaging magnet during the idle periods, thereby placing the magnetic resonance imaging magnet in a power saving mode; and controlling (206) the magnet power supply to continuously supply the electrical power to the magnetic resonance imaging magnet during the usage periods, thereby operating the magnetic resonance imaging magnet in a drive mode.

14. A computer program comprising machine executable instructions (140), wherein, Execution of the machine executable instructions cause a computing system (132) to control a magnetic resonance imaging system (100, 300) operable in a drive mode in accordance with claim 13. Execution of the machine executable instructions cause a computing system (132) to control a magnetic resonance imaging system (100, 300) operable in a drive mode in accordance with claim 13.

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