Adaptive Coil Base for MRI RF Surface Coil Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing MRI systems face challenges in efficiently coupling RF coils to variously-configured patient tables, leading to complex workflows and increased costs due to the need for multiple bases and orientations, which complicates the imaging process and reduces signal-to-noise ratio for smaller anatomies.
Innovation Solution
A coil positioning system with a table coupling device and a coil coupling device that allows for selective operative coupling of RF coils to imaging tables in multiple orientations, using features like rack gears, arcuate gears, and dynamic coil engagement members to securely position the coils in horizontal and vertical orientations without requiring multiple bases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple bases and mounting solutions are used to accommodate different MRI systems and orientations, then the coil can be adapted to various configurations, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal coil base design that can accommodate multiple MRI system types and table configurations through a single multi-functional device. The base incorporates adjustable mounting mechanisms and multiple engagement features that allow it to interface with different MRI system architectures, eliminating the need for manufacturer-specific or orientation-specific bases.
Solution Approach 2:
The coil base incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities including movable mounting elements and adjustable positioning mechanisms that allow the base to adapt its configuration based on the specific MRI system and desired coil orientation. This dynamic adaptability enables a single base to replace multiple static bases designed for specific configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple bases are used to support different coil orientations, then various imaging orientations can be achieved, but the workflow complexity increases due to requiring multiple bases to store and train for
Solution Approach 1:
The universal base design supports multiple coil orientations (horizontal, vertical, angled) through integrated adjustment mechanisms, allowing operators to achieve different imaging orientations using a single base type rather than switching between multiple specialized bases.
Solution Approach 2:
The base incorporates dynamic positioning features such as adjustable arms, rotatable mounting points, and reconfigurable engagement mechanisms that allow operators to quickly change coil orientations without replacing the base, simplifying the workflow to a single base with multiple positioning capabilities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple bases are required to switch between orientations, then different imaging positions can be achieved, but the time required to switch orientations increases due to dismounting and remounting
Solution Approach 1:
The base features dynamic, quickly-adjustable mounting mechanisms that allow operators to change coil orientations in-place without dismounting the coil assembly. Adjustable arms, rotatable joints, and slide mechanisms enable rapid repositioning of the coil to different orientations while maintaining secure attachment to the base.
Solution Approach 2:
The base is divided into modular segments with independent adjustment capabilities, allowing different portions of the base to be adjusted separately to achieve various orientations. This segmentation enables fine-tuned positioning and rapid reconfiguration without moving the entire base assembly.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple bases are used for different MRI system configurations, then system compatibility is improved, but the manufacturing cost and capital investment increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a single universal base that can interface with multiple MRI system types and table configurations through standardized mounting interfaces and adjustable positioning mechanisms, eliminating the need for manufacturers to produce and inventory multiple specialized bases for different MRI systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The base incorporates adjustable parameters such as mounting heights, angles, and positions that can be configured to match different MRI system specifications. This parametric adjustability allows a single base design to accommodate variations in MRI system architectures without requiring custom manufacturing for each system type.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for positioning of an RF surface coil to several imaging tables has a table coupling device with first and second sides and table engagement features. The first side has a planar surface to mate with a first imaging table. The second side has a contoured surface having a curvature to mate with a second imaging table. A coil coupling device selectively couples to each of the first and second sides of the table coupling device in respective first and second configurations. The coil coupling device selectively rotates about a rotation axis perpendicular to the first side, and selectively translates along a translation axis perpendicular to the rotation axis. The coil coupling device has one or more coil engagement features to selectively engage the RF surface coil in each of a horizontal position and vertical position of the RF surface coil with respect to the table coupling device.