Adjustable MR Local Coil with Displaceable Substrates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional MR local coils struggle to achieve optimal signal-to-noise ratio and form-fitting for patients with varying anatomy, as rigid coils are inadequate for small or intermediate dimensions and flexible coils fail to fit complex three-dimensional anatomies effectively.
Innovation Solution
The MR local coil consists of multiple substrates with conductor loops that can be tangentially displaced relative to each other, forming a virtual surface for improved three-dimensional form-fitting, allowing for flexible adjustment and increased versatility in accommodating different patient shapes, with the ability to bend and include mechanisms for controlled displacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If rigid MR local coils are used to cover high proportion of patient anatomy, then coil coverage area is improved, but signal-to-noise ratio deteriorates because coil elements lie too far away from patient
Solution Approach 1:
The coil is divided into multiple displaceable substrates that can be independently positioned. Each substrate carries conductor loops that can be brought into close contact with the patient's anatomy, while the segmented structure allows the overall coil to cover a large anatomical area through coordinated displacement of individual substrates.
Solution Approach 2:
The substrates are made displaceable relative to one another, allowing the coil structure to dynamically adapt its shape and position. This dynamic capability enables the coil elements to maintain optimal proximity to the patient's surface while covering extensive anatomical regions, resolving the contradiction between coverage area and signal-to-noise ratio.
2Adaptability or versatility
If flexible conventional MR local coils are adjusted to fit patient anatomy, then adaptability to different anatomies is improved, but form-fitting capability deteriorates because portions of the coil bulge and stick out
Solution Approach 1:
The coil is segmented into multiple substrates that can be independently displaced and positioned. This segmentation allows each substrate to conform precisely to local anatomical features without causing bulging or protrusions, while the collective arrangement of substrates provides versatility for different anatomical types.
Solution Approach 2:
The substrates are arranged to form a combined virtual surface that can adapt to three-dimensional anatomical variations. By allowing displacement in multiple directions and orientations, the coil achieves superior form-fitting capability while maintaining adaptability to various anatomical configurations.
3Measurement precision
If substrates are made displaceable to improve form-fitting, then signal-to-noise ratio is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple substrates and displacement mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The coil is divided into multiple substrates with conductor loops, where each substrate can be independently displaced. This segmentation enables the conductor loops to be positioned optimally close to the patient for improved signal-to-noise ratio, while the modular substrate design manages complexity through standardized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The substrates are configured to be displaceable relative to one another, creating a dynamic structure that adapts to patient anatomy. This dynamic capability brings conductor loops into close proximity with the patient for enhanced signal quality, while the displacement mechanism is designed to balance functionality with manageable device complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design enhances the signal-to-noise ratio by bringing conductor loops closer to the patient, reduces the risk of conductor breakages, and improves the coil's ability to fit a wide range of subjects, facilitating better image quality and versatility in MRI examinations.
Implementation Method 1
the magnetic resonance signals induce in the individual conductor loops of the MR local coil a voltage that is read as measurement data
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic resonance (MR) local coil and a magnetic resonance apparatus are provided. The MR local coil includes a plurality of substrates. At least one conductor loop is arranged on each substrate of the plurality of substrates. The plurality of substrates form a combined virtual surface. The plurality of substrates may be displaced with respect to one another tangentially to the virtual surface.