Magnetic resonance apparatus

Abstract

The utility model relates to a kind of magnetic resonance equipment, the magnetic resonance equipment has: magnet unit, the magnet unit surrounds patient containment area;Air delivery unit, the air delivery unit constitutes for during magnetic resonance examination Fresh air is delivered into patient containment area;At least one air extraction unit, the at least one air extraction unit constitutes for extracting evaluation air at at least one extraction location of magnetic resonance equipment;Evaluation unit, the evaluation unit is used to detect smoke;And air transport unit, the air transport unit constitutes for air flow is transported to air delivery unit and air flow is transported from at least one extraction unit to evaluation unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a magnetic resonance device, which has an air delivery unit for delivering fresh air and an evaluation unit for smoke detection. Background Technology

[0002] In a patient's magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination, that is, during magnetic resonance imaging (MRT), magnetic fields, particularly gradient fields and radio frequency signals or fields, are typically used to detect magnetic resonance signals through the MRI device, according to the measurement protocol. To generate the gradient field, the MRI device usually has gradient coil units. The MRI device also typically includes a radio frequency antenna unit, by means of which radio frequency signals can be generated to excite atomic nuclei.

[0003] Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of patients typically involve long examination times, during which the patient, and particularly the area to be examined, must remain within the patient housing area. In the cylindrical design and / or tubular shape of the patient housing area, adequate air exchange between the air within the patient housing area and the ambient air may be insufficient. Furthermore, due to the long examination time, the patient housing area and / or the patient may undesirably heat up, which could negatively impact the detection of image data.

[0004] One feasible solution to this situation is to provide the patient with fresh air during the MRI scan. Here, a flow of fresh air can be delivered to the patient's occupancy area. This fresh airflow can lower the patient's body temperature, allowing the magnet unit, especially the radio frequency antenna unit, to deliver more power to the patient without causing overheating. This can lead to a reduction in measurement duration and / or an improvement in measurement data quality or image quality. Furthermore, a flow of fresh air delivered during the MRI scan can positively impact the patient's comfort during the examination. Reducing or minimizing feelings of confinement and / or discomfort can contribute to improved examination comfort.

[0005] Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) devices can also be equipped with smoke detectors to detect smoke in a timely manner or in advance, and to introduce countermeasures such as shutting down the MRI device, or cooling or fire extinguishing measures.

[0006] The feasibility of delivering fresh airflows and detecting smoke in magnetic resonance imaging equipment requires numerous structural measures. Utility Model Content

[0007] An objective of this invention is to reduce the structural costs associated with implementing fresh air delivery and smoke detection in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) devices. This objective is achieved through an MRI device according to this invention. Advantageous design features are described below.

[0008] A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device is proposed, comprising a magnet unit surrounding a patient accommodating area. Furthermore, the MRI device includes an air delivery unit configured to deliver fresh air to the patient accommodating area during an MRI examination. Additionally, the MRI device includes at least one air extraction unit at at least one extraction location configured to extract assessment air. Furthermore, the MRI device includes an assessment unit for detecting smoke. The MRI device also includes an air transport unit configured to transport an airflow, particularly comprising fresh air, to the air delivery unit, and to transport an airflow, particularly comprising assessment air, from at least one extraction unit to the assessment unit.

[0009] Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) devices are typically designed and / or configured to detect medical and / or diagnostic image data of a patient, particularly medical and / or diagnostic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data. The magnet unit of an MRI device may particularly include a main magnet, a gradient coil unit, and a radio frequency (RF) antenna unit. The main magnet of the magnet unit is preferably configured to generate a uniform main magnetic field with a defined and / or specific magnetic field strength, for example, a defined and / or specific magnetic field strength of 3T or 1.5T. In particular, the main magnet is configured to generate a strong, constant, and uniform main magnetic field. The uniform main magnetic field is preferably disposed and / or present within the patient-accommodating area of ​​the MRI device. The gradient coil unit is preferably configured to generate a gradient magnetic field for position encoding during imaging. The RF antenna unit is preferably fixedly disposed within the magnet unit and designed and / or configured to emit excitation pulses. To detect magnetic resonance signals, the MRI device preferably has local RF coils disposed around the area of ​​the patient to be examined. The magnet unit typically surrounds the patient area configured to accommodate the patient for MRI examination.

[0010] The air delivery unit of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device is configured to deliver fresh air, particularly a fresh airflow, to the patient accommodation area during MRI examinations. The air delivery unit preferably has at least one ventilation inlet. This ventilation inlet preferably leads into the patient accommodation area, particularly into the area of ​​the patient accommodation area surrounded by the magnet unit. Preferably, the housing surrounding the patient accommodation area has at least one ventilation inlet for allowing airflow into the patient accommodation area; that is, airflow can be delivered to the patient accommodation area through at least one ventilation inlet. Especially when the air delivery unit has two or more ventilation inlets, it can have a fresh air passage advantageously configured to connect the two or more ventilation inlets to each other. The ventilation inlets of the air delivery unit are preferably located in the patient accommodation area to ensure the delivery of fresh air for the patient's comfort while achieving the most efficient cooling effect possible.

[0011] At least one air extraction unit of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) apparatus constitutes an assessment air, particularly an assessment airflow, for extracting assessment air from at least one extraction location for an MRI examination. The air extraction unit preferably has at least one extraction opening (particularly at least one ventilation outlet) configured to extract and / or draw air, particularly assessment air, from a defined or determined extraction location. Especially when the air extraction unit has two or more extraction openings, it may have an assessment air passage advantageously configured to connect the two or more extraction openings to each other. Preferably, the size of the extraction opening is selected such that at least the required amount of air can be delivered to the assessment unit of the MRI apparatus for detecting smoke at the corresponding location of the extraction opening. The extraction opening may, for example, have a diameter of 5 mm to 15 mm, particularly 10 mm. The required amount of assessment air may depend on the assessment unit, particularly the measurement accuracy of the assessment unit. MRI apparatuses typically have multiple components at which smoke may be generated, for example, due to high current intensities in fault conditions. Preferably, at least one extraction opening is located at such a fire hazard or fire emergency unit, for example at the current terminals of the gradient coil. This allows for the timely detection of the location of components within the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device.

[0012] The evaluation unit of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device is configured to detect smoke. Preferably, the evaluation unit is also configured to detect other aerosols. Evaluation air can be delivered to the evaluation unit in the form of an evaluation airflow. In particular, the evaluation unit can be a fire alarm and / or smoke alarm, preferably an inhalation smoke alarm. The evaluation unit may include an identification unit and / or an inspection unit. The identification unit can be configured to detect or determine the proportion of gases, especially combustion gases, such as carbon monoxide or carbon dioxide, and / or solid particles, such as soot or ash, in the airflow. The identification unit can be traversed by the airflow and / or located in a channel section or pipe element section. The inspection unit can be configured to evaluate the detected and / or determined proportions of gases and / or solid particles. In particular, the inspection unit can be configured to perform the evaluation by comparing the determined proportions of gases and / or solid particles with a determined threshold. In particular, the inspection unit can be configured to output an alarm signal (also a warning signal) and / or alarm tone when the determined threshold is exceeded.

[0013] The air transport unit of an MRI scanner is configured to simultaneously transport airflow, particularly fresh airflow, from the air transport unit to the air delivery device, and airflow, particularly airflow containing assessment air, from at least one extraction unit to the assessment unit. Advantageously, the MRI scanner may therefore include only a single air transport unit for supplying fresh air or ventilation to the patient accommodation area and for detecting smoke or for extracting assessment air. In contrast, conventionally, separate components or devices are provided for delivering fresh air to the patient area and for detecting smoke in the MRI scanner; for example, two independent channel systems or hose systems each include one air transport unit. Thus, the implementation of the air transport unit results in a significant reduction in structural costs and / or required structural space. The airflow may consist of a portion of airflow extracted by the extraction unit and other portions of airflow, such as a portion of airflow drawn by the suction unit. In other words, the air transport unit may be an element that generates airflow. In particular, the air transport unit may be configured as a fan and / or blower. In particular, the air transport unit may have an inlet side and an outlet side, wherein a negative pressure may be generated at the inlet side, particularly for drawing in airflow, and an overpressure may be generated at the outlet side, particularly for blowing out airflow.

[0014] This invention allows for the advantageous use of only an air transport unit. Redundant components, particularly the air transport unit and / or connecting elements such as channels and hoses, can be reduced or optimized in design. This can result in cost savings while maintaining the same level of safety or comfort for the patient.

[0015] In one feasible embodiment of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, it may be proposed that the MRI device includes a delivery channel. Here, the delivery channel may be connected to and / or extend from an air delivery unit and an air transport unit to the air delivery unit. Furthermore, the MRI device may include at least one extraction channel. The extraction channel may be connected to and / or extend from at least one air extraction unit and an air transport unit and / or an evaluation unit to the air transport unit and / or the evaluation unit. The delivery channel may also be referred to as a ventilation channel or air passage. The delivery channel is preferably configured to transport an airflow, particularly a fresh airflow, generated or provided by the air transport unit to or within the patient accommodation area. In other words, the air transport unit is preferably disposed between the delivery channel and at least one extraction channel. The air transport unit may here have an inlet side and an outlet side, the inlet side being configured to draw and / or extract an airflow, particularly an evaluation airflow, through at least one extraction channel, particularly by generating negative pressure, and the outlet side being configured to blow and / or output an airflow, particularly a fresh airflow, through the delivery channel, particularly by generating overpressure. The channel, especially the delivery channel or extraction channel, can also be referred to and / or designed as a hose, tube, conduit, line, or generally referred to and / or designed as a conduit element. Preferably, the channel or conduit element is configured as a flexible element. In particular, the channel or conduit element can be made of plastic or metal. Here, the diameter of the channel or conduit element is preferably between 5 mm and 50 mm, especially 10 mm. Individual channel sections or conduit sections can have different diameters. Advantageously, the channel system or conduit system of the delivery unit can be designed in connection with or combined with the channel or conduit system of at least one extraction unit. With this embodiment, the total length of the channel system (or conduit system), especially the channel of the magnetic resonance device, can preferably be reduced and / or optimized. This functional integration (e.g., using the extraction channel as a suction channel for fresh air delivery) can result in a reduction in the cost of the entire system.

[0016] In one embodiment, the evaluation unit can be positioned in front of the air transport unit on the input side. Specifically, the evaluation unit can be positioned at or within the extraction channel. In the case of two or more extraction units, the extraction channels can preferably be converged via an airflow converging unit (counter-airflow separator) before entering the evaluation unit. This arrangement of the evaluation units allows for the separation of the functions of smoke detection in front of the air transport unit (on the input side) and fresh air delivery behind the air transport unit (on the output side). This can advantageously facilitate the arrangement of other units, particularly airflow cleaning units (behind the evaluation unit and / or the air transport unit). The extraction channel can exemplary include a branching element, at which or through which the extraction channel branches from the input side of the air transport unit into two or more extraction channels. Here, the size or dimensions of the extraction channels can differ from each other, for example, in diameter. Alternatively, the evaluation unit can also be positioned behind the air transport unit on the output side. Specifically, the evaluation unit can be positioned at or within the delivery channel. This arrangement of evaluation units can effectively achieve efficient use of structural space.

[0017] In one feasible embodiment of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, the device may include a suction unit. Specifically, the suction unit may include a suction opening and a suction filter. Preferably, the suction unit may be configured to suction air, particularly fresh air, and to deliver the suctioned air to an air transport unit via a channel. In particular, the suction unit may be located at or within an extraction channel configured to transport the suctioned air, along with evaluation air from at least one air extraction unit, to the air transport unit. Advantageously, the suction opening may have a larger diameter than at least one extraction opening, allowing more air or a larger airflow to be delivered through the suction opening of the air transport unit. For example, the suction opening may be designed as a square with a side length of 25 cm or a diameter of 25 cm. Insufficient airflow may be delivered to the air transport unit via at least one extraction opening. Perhaps due to a small airflow, patient cooling may not be adequately achieved. Advantageously, the suction opening ensures and / or sets a predetermined amount of air (sufficient for patient cooling) to be transported to the air transport unit.

[0018] Alternatively, the suction unit can be directly connected to the air transport unit via a suction channel. The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device may include, for example, an airflow regulation unit, which may be located in front of and / or on the input side of the air transport unit, particularly within or at the suction channel. The airflow regulation unit can be used to set and / or determine the amount of air delivered to the air transport unit. In particular, the airflow regulation unit may include a controllable valve.

[0019] Alternatively, multiple suction units and / or suction openings may be provided. Each extraction channel may also include, for example, one suction unit. Preferably, at least one extraction channel has an airflow converging unit (in other words, a reverse airflow separator) that connects the suction channel from the suction opening to the extraction channel. The diameter of the suction channel, or the diameter of the extraction channel including the suction unit, can be, for example, from 3 cm to 10 cm, especially 5 cm. Advantageously, with a larger diameter suction channel, the desired airflow can be delivered without eddy noise at a given flow rate of the air transport unit.

[0020] In particular, a suction filter and / or additional filters or air cleaning elements, preferably disposed between the suction opening and the airflow gathering unit, ensure that the suction airflow (except in case of malfunction or fire) does not carry contaminant particles, aerosols, or dust particles. Furthermore, the suction filter and / or additional filter elements or air cleaning elements ensure that the detection function of the evaluation unit is not impaired, for example, due to dust particles in the ambient air.

[0021] Suction filters and / or additional filters or air cleaning elements can be located behind the assessment unit, particularly downstream of it. This, in particular, avoids and / or eliminates contamination of the fresh air delivered to the patient accommodation area, for example, due to deposited particles. The suction filters and / or additional filters or air cleaning elements can be configured to ensure the accessibility of the filter elements, especially for operators during maintenance work. For example, suction filters and / or additional filters or air cleaning elements can be located within or at the housing element of the MRI machine to facilitate maintenance, cleaning, or replacement of the filter unit.

[0022] One feasible embodiment of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device proposes that the magnet unit includes at least one extraction unit. The extraction unit may also be referred to as an air extraction unit. In particular, at least one (air) extraction unit may be located at a unit or component of the magnet unit that can be rapidly or intensely heated due to high current or current intensity. In other words, the extraction opening of at least one extraction unit, especially at least one extraction unit, may be located at a fire hazard or fire-critical unit or location of the magnet unit. In particular, units of the magnet unit connected to and / or containing a cooling system may be fire hazard or fire-critical units because, in the event of a malfunction, the cooling effect may fail. The extraction opening of the air extraction unit, especially at least one extraction unit, may be located, for example, in the patient area or at a housing element adjacent to the patient area. Units or components located in the patient area, especially local coils, may also be fire hazard or fire-critical units. In particular, the extraction opening of at least one extraction unit, especially at least one extraction unit, may be located at a radio frequency antenna unit (body coil). Other feasible components, or units where air extraction units and / or air extraction openings can be located, may include terminals of a gradient coil unit, a current delivery unit (power supply) for the main magnet, gradient current lines at the penetrating element, a gradient amplifier, and / or an electronic cabinet. Such extraction units or openings locally located at fire hazard or fire emergency units can improve the safety of the magnetic resonance imaging equipment by enabling, for example, rapid (potentially localized) detection.

[0023] Another feasible embodiment of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device may be proposed, in which the magnet unit has a gradient coil unit for generating a gradient field (also known as a magnetic field gradient). Furthermore, at least one air extraction unit may be disposed at the gradient coil unit. The gradient coil unit is typically energized with currents, for example, up to 1200 amperes and up to 2.2 kV, to generate the gradient field. In particular, force transmission and mechanical deformation occur at the connection points of the gradient coil unit and the gradient lines due to the large stray field of the main magnet. These may correspondingly affect and damage the cable connections (loosening or breakage of the cables). Therefore, it is preferable that an air extraction unit and / or an air extraction opening are also disposed at the connection points of the gradient lines. The arrangement of the extraction unit at the gradient coil unit and / or connection points advantageously enables timely or improved detection of dangerous situations, especially for patients.

[0024] One feasible embodiment of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device proposes that the evaluation unit is traversed by a portion or the entire airflow. The evaluation unit may, for example, include a sub-section of a channel, particularly a delivery channel, extraction channel, or a sub-section of an airflow channel. The sub-section of the channel may include the evaluation unit. In another design, the sub-section of the channel may be configured parallel to the main channel, particularly parallel to the airflow channel or delivery channel. Here, the airflow channel or delivery channel may include an airflow separator and / or an airflow converging element. In particular, such an implementation of the evaluation unit is advantageous when performing optical identification or flow measurement of solid particles or smoke. This embodiment may save on regulating units, particularly controllable valves.

[0025] In one feasible embodiment of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, it can be proposed that the MRI device includes an airflow channel connecting an air transport unit and an evaluation unit. In other words, the airflow channel can extend between the air transport unit and the evaluation unit. Preferably, this allows a defined amount of air, particularly evaluation air, to be delivered to the evaluation unit. This configuration simplifies the maintenance and replacement of the evaluation unit, as it allows for other possibilities in the spatial arrangement of the evaluation unit within the MRI device. It may be necessary to ensure smoke detection and / or fire detection even if the air transport to the patient area is disabled or malfunctions. A separate connection or attachment of the evaluation unit via the airflow channel can advantageously enable or simplify the regulation of the airflow delivered to the evaluation unit. For example, an energy-saving mode is feasible, in which the air transport to the patient area is disabled, and the air transport unit operates at low transport power, but a defined (at least necessary for smoke detection) evaluation airflow can still be delivered to the evaluation unit via a separate airflow channel.

[0026] One feasible implementation of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device proposes that the evaluation unit and the air transport unit form a single unit. In other words, the evaluation unit and the air transport unit can form a component or part. Specifically, the evaluation unit and the air transport unit can be housed within a (common) housing. The evaluation unit can be located at the location of the air transport unit, or vice versa. This functional integration and / or combination can lead to further simplification of the overall system, saving space or structural area within the MRI device and being more cost-effective than two individual components.

[0027] In one feasible implementation, the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device may include an airflow regulation unit. The airflow regulation unit may be configured to regulate the amount of airflow delivered to the evaluation unit and / or the air delivery unit. In particular, a feasible connection between the suction unit and the extraction unit can advantageously regulate the airflow rate delivered to the evaluation unit. In other words, by suctioning air by the suction unit (additionally), the evaluation air can be affected, particularly reduced, restricted, or diluted, making it particularly advantageous to regulate the air delivered to the evaluation unit. Advantageously, this can improve or ensure the detection function of the evaluation unit. The airflow regulation unit may be located at or in front of the evaluation unit, or may be a component of the evaluation unit. The airflow regulation unit may also be located at, in front of, or behind the air delivery unit, or may be a component of the air delivery unit. The airflow regulation unit may be configured as a controllable valve. In particular, the airflow regulation unit may be a smart valve including a control valve, a measuring unit particularly for flow measurement, temperature measurement, and / or pressure measurement, and a processor. The smart valve is preferably configured to regulate the air supplied to the evaluation unit and / or the air delivery unit via a regulating valve through one or more selected or defined regulating parameters. In another embodiment, the airflow regulating unit may be part of an airflow branching unit (which is also an airflow separator). The airflow branching unit may include, for example, an adjustment unit by which a corresponding flow share can be determined, for example by changing the flow area of ​​the branch's (sub)channels.

[0028] In one feasible embodiment of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, it can be proposed that the MRI device includes a second air extraction unit. The second extraction unit is disposed at a second extraction position spaced apart from the first extraction position. Because the MRI device can have multiple fire hazard or fire-critical units, it is advantageous to provide at least one second air extraction unit. Fire hazard or fire-critical units can be disposed in the MRI device such that smoke, combustion gases, and / or combustion particles cannot or cannot be identified sufficiently in a timely manner by means of an evaluation unit using only one extraction unit. This is particularly true when other components and units of the MRI device, such as housing elements, make the air extraction process difficult or, for example, prevent, hinder, or block the air extraction process in one direction. Each extraction device can have a defined extraction radius (also an extraction area). Here, the spacing between the extraction devices, especially the spacing between extraction positions, can be determined, for example, by adding the corresponding extraction radii. A safety distance can be provided between two extraction positions to avoid overlap of extraction areas. Therefore, spaced-apart additional extraction devices can improve smoke detection or supplement the safety devices of the MRI device. The spacing between the first and second extraction devices can be such that additional or supplementary extraction openings of the first extraction device are not feasible. Multiple spaced-apart air extraction units ensure virtually seamless fire and smoke monitoring of the MRI equipment. Furthermore, the spaced-apart air extraction units provide redundancy regarding air extraction locations, thereby improving the fire safety of the MRI equipment.

[0029] Another feasible implementation may propose that the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device includes a second air extraction unit at a second extraction position. The extraction position of the second extraction unit is located at the electronic components within the technical chamber of the MRI device. The technical chamber of the MRI device is characterized in that it is shielded relative to the magnet unit (electrically and / or magnetically grounded). The technical chamber may be connected to the magnet chamber via a connecting element, which may also be referred to as a durchlasselement or filter plate. Furthermore, the connecting element may include at least one opening for the passage of wiring elements, channels, and / or cables. The magnet chamber may, in particular, contain and / or surround the magnet unit. Specifically, the technical chamber of the MRI device may contain the electronic components of the MRI device. The electronic components of the MRI device may, in particular, include a gradient control unit, a radio frequency antenna control unit, and / or a system control unit. The technical chamber typically includes one or more switch cabinets. The technical chamber may be an enclosed space or area of ​​the MRI device. The second air extraction unit may be located within the technical chamber of the MRI device, particularly in the upper region (from the bottom) of the switch cabinet. This air extraction unit is designed to extract rising smoke particles and / or (combustion) gases from the technical room, such as the switch cabinet, and especially at the gradient amplifier. The electronic components (also electronic parts) of the MRI equipment can withstand high currents, especially high amperes, making them potentially flammable and fire-prone. Cables associated with these components may fail and cause short circuits in case of malfunction. The shielding of the technical room, primarily designed to prevent interference with the magnetic field, especially the gradient field, may also be necessary to shield smoke particles or (combustion) gases. For example, an air extraction device located in the magnet room cannot detect potential smoke generation in the technical room. To improve the safety of the MRI equipment, it is advantageous to also include a (second) air extraction unit in the technical room, especially in the switch cabinet.

[0030] One feasible embodiment of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device proposes that the air transport unit and the evaluation unit are located in the technical room. The technical room is preferably shielded. In particular, shielding can prevent the measurement environment of the MRI device, especially the generated gradient field, from being affected or interfered with by the electronic components of the air transport unit and / or the evaluation unit. This eliminates the need for additional shielding of the air transport unit and / or the evaluation unit, especially the electric motor included in the air transport unit. Furthermore, noise generation near the patient accommodation area can be reduced, and patient comfort is consistently improved during the examination.

[0031] One feasible implementation of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device proposes that the air transport unit and the evaluation unit are spaced apart from the magnet unit. With sufficient spacing, shielding of the air transport unit and / or the evaluation unit is no longer necessary, as the influence on the measurement environment, especially the resulting gradient field, can be eliminated (even if the air transport unit and evaluation unit are not located in a technical room). Here, the spacing can be, for example, related to the intensity of the magnetic stray field. A feasible boundary value for the magnetic stray field can be, for example, less than 100 millitesla (mT) or the 5 Gauss limit corresponding to 0.5 mT. By separating the air transport unit and the evaluation unit from the magnet unit, the air transport unit and the evaluation unit can form separate units. Increased spacing between the evaluation unit and units with fire hazards or fire emergencies can be advantageous to delay or prevent failure or damage to the evaluation unit in fault or hazardous conditions.

[0032] One feasible embodiment of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device proposes that the air transport unit and the evaluation unit are located at the magnet unit. This arrangement allows for a compact structural implementation of the MRI device. Positioning the air transport unit and the evaluation unit at the magnet unit near the air delivery unit and / or at least one air extraction unit reduces channel length, particularly the length of the delivery channel and the extraction channel.

[0033] One feasible implementation of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device proposes that each extraction channel has a separate evaluation unit, particularly a fire alarm and / or smoke alarm. Alternatively, each extraction channel can be individually supplied to the evaluation unit. In particular, each extraction channel can have an adjustment unit, such as a valve. This arrangement allows for the association of detected smoke and / or fire generation with a location or position within the MRI device in the event of a failure. The association of smoke detection with the location or component of the MRI device enables matched and / or additional countermeasures at the location of the failure.

[0034] One feasible embodiment of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device proposes that the air extraction openings of at least two or more air extraction units are configured with opening sizes such that separate suction units and / or suction openings are no longer required. The air extraction openings can be configured in different sizes. For example, the diameter of one air extraction opening can be many times larger than that of a second air extraction opening. For example, one air extraction opening can have a diameter of 10 mm, while the second air extraction opening can have a diameter of 20 cm. Preferably, in the embodiment described, a filter is positioned behind, and particularly downstream of, the evaluation unit to clean the airflow, especially to remove dust particles, before it enters the air delivery unit.

[0035] Other advantages, features, and details of this invention will become apparent from the embodiments described below and from the accompanying drawings. Corresponding parts are given the same reference numerals in all the drawings. Repeated descriptions of corresponding parts in the respective embodiments will be omitted. Embodiments can be distinguished substantially by the arrangement of the units. Attached Figure Description

[0036] The attached diagram shows:

[0037] Figure 1 A schematic diagram illustrates a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device with an air delivery unit and a smoke detection system.

[0038] Figure 2 This illustrates a magnetic resonance apparatus having an air transport unit and an evaluation unit disposed at the magnet unit.

[0039] Figure 3 A second embodiment of a magnetic resonance apparatus having an air transport unit and an evaluation unit disposed in a magnet chamber is shown.

[0040] Figure 4 A third embodiment of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device is shown, comprising an air transport unit and an evaluation unit disposed in a technical room.

[0041] Figure 5 A fourth embodiment of a magnetic resonance apparatus having a spaced-out air transport unit and an evaluation unit is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0042] exist Figure 1 The image schematically illustrates a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device 10. The MRI device 10 includes a magnet unit 11 having a main magnet 12 for generating a strong and, in particular, time-constant, main magnetic field 13. Furthermore, the MRI device 10 includes a patient receiving area 14 for accommodating a patient 15. In this embodiment, the patient receiving area 14 is cylindrically configured and cylindrically surrounded in the circumferential direction by the magnet unit 11. However, in principle, different configurations of the patient receiving area 14 can be contemplated at any time. The patient 15 can move within the patient receiving area 14 by means of a patient support device 16 of the MRI device 10. For this purpose, the patient support device 16 has an examination bed 17 designed to be movable within the patient receiving area 14.

[0043] The magnet unit 11 also includes a gradient coil unit 18 for generating a gradient magnetic field used for position encoding during imaging. The gradient coil unit 18 is controlled by a gradient control unit 19 of the magnetic resonance imaging device 10. The magnet unit 11 also includes a radio frequency antenna unit 20, which in this embodiment is configured as a body coil fixedly integrated into the magnetic resonance imaging device 10. The radio frequency antenna unit 20 is controlled by a radio frequency antenna control unit 21 of the magnetic resonance imaging device 10 and delivers a high-frequency magnetic resonance sequence into an examination chamber, which is substantially formed by the patient reception area 14 of the magnetic resonance imaging device 10. Thereby, a main magnetic field 13 generated by the main magnet 12 excites atomic nuclei. Magnetic resonance signals are generated through the relaxation of the excited atomic nuclei. The radio frequency antenna unit 20 is configured to receive magnetic resonance signals.

[0044] To control the main magnet 12, gradient control unit 19, and radio frequency antenna control unit 21, the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device 10 has a system control unit 22. The system control unit 22 controls the MRI device 10, for example, the execution of a predetermined imaging gradient echo sequence. The system control unit 22 can also connect to the radio frequency antenna control unit 21 and the gradient control unit 19 and forward control commands to the corresponding control units. Furthermore, the system control unit 22 includes an evaluation unit (not shown in detail) for evaluating the magnetic resonance signals detected during an MRI examination. Additionally, the MRI device 10 includes a user interface 23 connected to the system control unit 22. Control information, such as imaging parameters, and reconstructed MRI images can be displayed on a display unit 24, such as at least one monitor, for use by a medical operator in the user interface 23. Furthermore, the user interface 23 has an input unit 25, which can be used by a medical operator to input information and / or parameters during the measurement process.

[0045] To deliver a fresh airflow, the MRI device 10 has an air delivery unit 31 disposed in the patient accommodating area 14. To extract smoke particles and / or smoke gases, the MRI device 10 also has at least one air extraction device 32, which is preferably disposed at an extraction location at the gradient coil unit 18. Detection of smoke particles and / or smoke gases can be performed via an evaluation unit 33. The air transport unit 30 is connected not only to the air extraction device 32, preferably via an extraction channel 34, but also to the air delivery unit 31, preferably via a transport channel 35. Air extracted by at least one air extraction device 32 is transported to the evaluation unit 33 via the air transport unit 30. The evaluation unit is here connected to the air transport unit 30 via an airflow channel 41. However, it is also conceivable that the evaluation unit 33 is directly connected to the air transport unit 30, or that the evaluation unit is located at or within the transport channel.

[0046] exist Figure 2 The diagram schematically illustrates a particularly compact and space-efficient embodiment of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device 10. The MRI device 10 can be divided into a magnet chamber 39 and a technology chamber 38. Specifically, the technology chamber 38 can be shielded relative to the magnet chamber 39, for example, by means of a metal plate or foil. The technology chamber can be connected to the magnet chamber via a connecting element 40, which can also be referred to as a penetrating element or filter plate. A first air extraction device 321 is connected to the air transport unit 30 via the connecting element 40 through a first extraction channel 341. The air transport unit 30, also preferably shielded, is located at the magnet unit 11. Furthermore, a suction unit 36 ​​is located at the magnet unit 11. The suction unit 36 ​​is connected to extraction channels 341, 342. Another air extraction device 322, configured here with two suction openings, is connected to the air transport unit 30 via another extraction channel 342. Here, before the extracted and / or drawn air is delivered to the air transport unit 30, the extraction channel 342 leads to the extraction channel 341 (or the extraction channel 341 can lead to the extraction channel 342). The air transport unit 30 delivers an airflow to the air transport unit 31 via the transport channel 35. The evaluation unit 331 is located at or within the transport channel 35 and is traversed by the airflow. Possible smoke particles and / or smoke gases can be detected by the evaluation unit 331, particularly by flow measurement.

[0047] exist Figure 3Another embodiment of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device 10 is shown, which schematically illustrates the placement of an air extraction unit 32 at a fire hazard or fire-critical component. Unlike this embodiment, the air transport unit 30, suction unit 36, and evaluation unit 331 are not located at the magnet unit, but rather near the connecting element 40. The fire hazard or fire-critical components in the technical chamber 38, shown for example by control units 19, 21, 22, and in the magnet chamber 39 at the magnet unit 11, shown for example by gradient coil unit 18 and radio frequency antenna unit 20, are associated with extraction units 321, 322, and 323, respectively. The first extraction unit 321 is associated with control units 19, 21, 22 such that an extraction opening (not shown) is positioned adjacent to control units 19, 21, 22. The second extraction unit 322 is associated with gradient coil unit 18, and the third extraction unit 323 is associated with radio frequency antenna unit 20, with extraction openings (indicated by extraction units 322, 323) positioned adjacent to them, respectively. The suction unit 36 ​​is exemplaryly positioned outside the magnet chamber 39. Alternatively, as shown in the example, the suction unit 36 ​​may also be located outside the examination room where the MRI device 10 is located, or more specifically, outside the MRI device 10 (e.g., in a building's air conditioning system), and deliver clean air or airflow directly from outside the MRI device 10 to the air transport unit 30. The cross-flow evaluation unit 331 is positioned in front of the converged extraction channel 34 on the input side (also referred to as the suction side) of the air transport unit 30.

[0048] exist Figure 4Another embodiment of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device 10 is schematically shown, illustrating the arrangement of a combined air transport and evaluation unit 333 in a technical chamber 38. An air extraction device 321, located in the technical chamber, is connected to the air transport and evaluation unit 333 via an extraction channel 341. The air transport and evaluation unit 333 includes an evaluation unit 332 and an air transport unit 330. The air transport and evaluation unit 333 can be configured such that the evaluation unit 332 is integrated into the air transport unit 330 (or the air transport unit 330 is integrated into the evaluation unit 332). The air transport and evaluation unit 333 delivers a stream of fresh air to an air transport unit 31 via a transport channel 35, which is guided through a connecting element 40. The air transport and evaluation unit 333 can be directly connected to a suction unit 36, as shown here. The suction unit 36 ​​has a suction opening 361 and a suction filter 362 separately. Preferably, the suction filter is disposed between the suction opening 361 and the air transport and evaluation unit 333. The suction unit 36 ​​can be located, in particular, in the area below (near the bottom) of the technical room 38, or in the area below (near the bottom) of the switch cabinet within the technical room. Additional air extraction devices 322 and 323 are connected to the air transport unit 30 via an extraction channel 342, which is guided by or through a connecting element. The extraction channel 342 has branches. The air extraction devices 322 and 323 are positioned with a distance B between them. Distance B may be a safety distance.

[0049] exist Figure 5 The diagram schematically illustrates another embodiment of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device 10 having spaced-apart air transport and evaluation units 30, 33 and an air conditioning unit 37. Multiple air extraction devices 321, 322 are placed in a technical chamber 38. Furthermore, the MRI device 10 includes an airflow conditioning unit 37. The evaluation unit 33 is connected to the air transport unit 30 via a (separate) airflow channel 41. The airflow conditioning unit 37, designed as a valve, is preferably disposed within or at the airflow channel 41. The airflow conditioning unit 37 is positioned between the air transport unit 30 and the evaluation unit 33. Therefore, a regulated airflow or a defined amount of air can be delivered to the evaluation unit 33.

[0050] Air transport unit 30, evaluation unit 33, airflow regulation unit 37, and possibly airflow channel 41 can form a (common) unit 50, which is located outside the magnet chamber 39 (and / or technical chamber 38). The distance between unit 50 and magnet unit 11 is indicated by spacing A. Spacing A can be specifically chosen such that shielding of unit 50 is not required. The unit 50 shown, consisting of air transport unit 30, evaluation unit 33, and airflow regulation unit 37, can also be located generally outside the magnetic resonance device 10, but particularly outside the magnet chamber 39 of the magnetic resonance device, and for example, simultaneously monitor multiple (adjacent) magnetic resonance devices. The embodiment shown in the figures does not include a suction unit. Sufficient amounts of air are provided or the airflow is suctioned via air extraction devices 321, 322, and 323.

[0051] Unlike what is shown, the evaluation unit 33 may also be traversed by airflow and the airflow may be returned to the delivery channel 35 after the evaluation. The parallel arrangement of the airflow channel 41 and the delivery channel 35 in this design may include additional airflow regulating units (not shown) or airflow regulating elements associated with the airflow regulating unit 37.

[0052] Finally, it should be reiterated that the accompanying drawings of the magnetic resonance imaging device are merely embodiments, and those skilled in the art can modify them in entirely different ways without departing from the scope of this invention. Therefore, features of different embodiments can be combined, for example (different from those shown). Furthermore, the use of the indefinite article "a" does not preclude the existence of multiple features. Similarly, the term "unit" does not preclude the possibility that the component involved may consist of multiple interacting sub-components that can be spatially distributed if necessary.

[0053] Regardless of the grammatical gender of a particular term, persons of either male or female gender are included.

Claims

1. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, the MRI device comprising: a magnet unit surrounding a patient receiving area; An air delivery unit configured to deliver fresh air to the patient accommodation area during a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination, characterized in that the MRI apparatus further comprises: at least one air extraction unit configured to extract evaluation air at at least one extraction location of the MRI apparatus; an evaluation unit configured to detect smoke; and an air transport unit configured to transport an airflow to the air delivery unit and an airflow from the at least one extraction unit to the evaluation unit.

2. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the magnetic resonance apparatus further comprises a delivery channel and at least one extraction channel, wherein the delivery channel is connected to the air delivery unit and the air transport unit, and wherein the extraction channel is connected to the at least one air extraction unit and the air transport unit and / or the evaluation unit.

3. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the magnetic resonance apparatus further comprises at least one suction unit, wherein the suction unit is configured to suction air and deliver the suction air to the air transport unit via a channel.

4. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one air extraction unit is disposed at the magnet unit.

5. The magnetic resonance apparatus of claim 4, wherein the magnet unit has a gradient coil unit for generating a gradient field, and the at least one air extraction unit is disposed at the gradient coil unit.

6. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the evaluation unit is traversed by a portion or the entire airflow.

7. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the magnetic resonance apparatus further comprises an airflow channel connected to the air transport unit and the evaluation unit.

8. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the evaluation unit and the air transport unit form a single unit.

9. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the magnetic resonance apparatus further comprises an airflow regulation unit, wherein the airflow regulation unit is configured to regulate the amount of airflow delivered to the evaluation unit and / or the air delivery unit.

10. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the magnetic resonance apparatus includes a second air extraction unit at a second extraction position spaced apart from the first extraction position.

11. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the magnetic resonance apparatus includes a second air extraction unit at a second extraction position, the second extraction position being disposed at an electronic component in the technical chamber of the magnetic resonance apparatus.

12. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the air transport unit and the evaluation unit are disposed in a technical room.

13. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the air transport unit and the evaluation unit are disposed spaced apart from the magnet unit.

14. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The air transport unit and the evaluation unit are located at the magnet unit.

15. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the suction unit includes a suction opening and a suction filter.

16. The magnetic resonance apparatus of claim 3, wherein the air is fresh air.

17. The magnetic resonance apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the channel is an extraction channel.

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