Deformable MRI RF Coil Arrangement for Subject Motion Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems face challenges in maintaining optimal signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and image quality due to variations in the distance between RF coils and subjects caused by subject movement, breathing, and other factors.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) coil arrangement with a base structure of variable shape, equipped with an actuator means and position detecting means, allows for real-time adjustment of the coil's position and shape to maintain contact with the subject, compensating for movements and optimizing SNR.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If RF coils are used as stationary receivers for MRI imaging, then the imaging process can be performed, but the signal-to-noise ratio deteriorates due to distance variations caused by subject movement and breathing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the stationary RF coil into a movable structure. The coil arrangement includes a base structure that can be deformed by actuator means (such as pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders) to dynamically adjust its position and shape. This allows the coil to follow the subject's movements and maintain optimal distance, thereby stabilizing the signal-to-noise ratio despite subject motion and breathing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by incorporating position detecting means (such as optical sensors, capacitive sensors, or MRI-based detection) to continuously monitor the distance between the RF coil and the subject. The control means processes this position information and adjusts the actuator means accordingly, creating a closed-loop system that maintains optimal coil-subject distance and compensates for distance variations in real-time.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual fixation methods are used to maintain coil position, then positioning can be achieved, but the workflow efficiency deteriorates due to time-consuming adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the coil arrangement to automatically adjust and maintain its own positioning. The integrated actuator means and control system allow the coil to autonomously follow subject movements without requiring manual intervention. The system self-regulates by detecting position changes and automatically adjusting the coil configuration, thereby achieving precise positioning while eliminating time-consuming manual adjustments and improving workflow efficiency.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the base structure is made rigid to maintain coil shape, then structural stability is improved, but the ability to adapt to subject movement is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the base structure into multiple independently controllable segments or sections. Each segment can be deformed or positioned separately by individual actuator means, allowing the overall structure to maintain its functional stability while adapting to subject movements. This modular segmentation enables selective deformation of specific areas without compromising the entire structure, balancing stability and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by transforming the rigid base structure into a dynamically adjustable configuration. The base structure incorporates actuator means that can deform specific segments in real-time based on detected subject movements. This allows the structure to transition between stable and adaptable states, maintaining structural integrity during imaging while enabling rapid adaptation to subject motion through controlled deformation of individual segments.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention may improve image quality of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The invention is directed to a coil arrangement (200) for magnetic resonance imaging. It comprises a base structure having a variable shape, an RF coil arranged on or in the base structure, an actuator means at least partially extending along the base structure such that the base structure is deformable along and/or about at least one axis, a position detecting means adapted to detect a current position of at least a portion of the subject to be examined relative to the RF coil, and control means coupled to the position detecting means and the actuator means, wherein the control means is adapted to adjust the shape of the base structure to maintain a contact of an outer surface of the base structure (210) and/or the RF coil (220) with the at least portion of the subject by driving the actuator means in response to a detected change of the current position relative to a previous position. The invention is further directed to a (MRI) system, a method for positioning an RF coil for a magnetic resonance imaging system relative to a subject to be examined, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium.