Depth Camera MRI Coil Positioning Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) preparation methods are time-consuming and require manual positioning of local coils and organs, which can be inaccurate, especially for flexible coils and hard-to-reach areas like the prostate, due to limited reception profiles and lack of precise alignment detection.
Innovation Solution
A method using a depth camera to capture a depth map of the examination subject, calculating a localization probability of the organ to be examined by adapting a body model to the depth map, and providing preparation information for optimizing coil positioning and organ alignment within the MRI device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual positioning of local coils and organs is used, then flexibility in handling various examination scenarios is maintained, but positioning accuracy and time consumption worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with an automated optical measurement system. A depth camera captures three-dimensional position data of local coils and examination objects, automatically calculating spatial relationships and providing positioning guidance without manual intervention, thereby improving both accuracy and efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital three-dimensional copy of the examination scene using depth camera imaging. This virtual model allows automated analysis of coil positions and organ locations, enabling precise positioning measurements without physical manual adjustment
2Loss of information
If known sensors (B0 Hall sensors, ultrasonic sensors, RFID tags) are used to detect coil position, then specific position information is obtained, but alignment and deformation detection capability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a depth camera that serves multiple functions: detecting coil position, determining organ location, assessing alignment, and evaluating deformation. This single device provides comprehensive spatial information that specialized sensors cannot deliver alone
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional or two-dimensional sensor measurements to three-dimensional depth mapping. The depth camera captures complete spatial coordinates (x, y, z) and spatial relationships, enabling comprehensive alignment and deformation analysis that planar sensors cannot achieve
3Measurement precision
If manual positioning by experienced operators is used, then positioning accuracy for difficult areas improves, but operational complexity and training requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the system to perform positioning tasks autonomously without relying on operator expertise. The automated image processing and position calculation algorithms independently determine optimal coil and organ positioning, making the system self-sufficient and independent of human skill level
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements automated feedback mechanisms where the depth camera continuously monitors positioning, the system calculates accuracy metrics, and guidance is provided to achieve optimal alignment. This closed-loop control replaces subjective operator judgment with objective automated feedback
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for providing preparatory information for preparing a magnetic resonance imaging of an examination object using a magnetic resonance device, a system and a computer program product.To enable a particularly advantageous preparation for magnetic resonance imaging, it is proposed that the inventive method for providing preparation information for preparing magnetic resonance imaging of an examination object using a magnetic resonance device comprises the following process steps: - Positioning the examination object on a patient positioning device of the magnetic resonance device, - Acquiring a depth map of the examination object positioned on the patient positioning device using a depth camera, - Determining preparation information for preparing the magnetic resonance imaging using the acquired depth map, and - Providing the preparation information.