Eddy-Current Field Compensation in MRI Using Inverse Laplace Transformation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems face challenges in compensating for eddy-currents, which cause field distortions and image degradation due to residual eddy-currents despite the use of self-shielding coils.

Innovation Solution

A method involving inverse Laplace transformation (ILT) to process eddy-current field data, identifying reliable spectrum peaks, and applying nonlinear least square fitting with bilateral linear inequality constraints to calibrate the eddy-current field model, allowing for effective compensation of eddy-currents.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If self-shielding coils are used to generate counter gradient magnetic field, then eddy-current interaction is reduced, but residual eddy-current remains

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveeddy-current interactionVSAvoidresidual eddy-current
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism by measuring the actual eddy-current field using a probe and comparing it with the model prediction. The measured data is used to iteratively optimize the eddy-current field model parameters, creating a closed-loop system that continuously improves compensation accuracy until the residual eddy-current is minimized below the threshold.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameters of the eddy-current field model through iterative optimization. By adjusting the model parameters based on measured feedback data and using optimization algorithms, the system dynamically modifies the compensation parameters to minimize residual eddy-current effects that were not eliminated by the self-shielding coils.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If eddy-current field model is calibrated using measured data, then compensation accuracy is improved, but measurement and calibration complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompensation accuracyVSAvoidcalibration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-calibration by using its own measurement capabilities to automatically optimize its compensation model. The probe measures the actual eddy-current field, and the system uses this data to iteratively adjust its own model parameters without requiring external calibration equipment or complex manual procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a probe as an intermediary device to measure the eddy-current field. This probe serves as a mediator between the eddy-current source and the compensation system, providing quantitative data that enables model calibration while keeping the overall system modular and manageable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Manufacturing precision

If iterative optimization is performed to minimize residual eddy-current, then image quality is improved, but calibration time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidcalibration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial optimization by stopping the iterative process when a predetermined threshold is reached or when a maximum number of iterations is completed. This allows the system to achieve sufficient compensation accuracy without performing excessive iterations that would unnecessarily extend calibration time, balancing image quality improvement with time efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

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 approach significantly reduces residual eddy-currents, improving the quality of MRI images by accurately modeling and compensating for eddy-currents, leading to enhanced diagnostic capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

current in one or more gradient coils may change time, thus induces eddy-current around the conducting structures

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

additional coils may be used as self-shielding coils for generating a counter gradient magnetic field

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic field generation: Electromagnet

Data Source

PatentEP3317688B1System and method for an eddy-current field compensation in magnetic resonance imaging
Publication Date: 2020.09.23 SHANGHAI UNITED IMAGING HEALTHCARE
  • EP3317688B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3317688B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP3317688B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

A method and system for acquiring a calibrated eddy-current field model in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are provided. The method may include one or more of the following operations. An eddy-current field model transformed by Laplace transformation may be obtained (501). Data of an eddy-current field may be obtained (502). The data of the eddy-current field may be processed (503). A calibrated eddy-current field model may be acquired (505). In addition, the calibrated eddy-current field model may be used to compensate an eddy-current field. According to the method and system, an accurate initial parameter for the eddy-current field model is obtained. With the initial parameter, the accuracy and efficiency of the compensation of the eddy-current field can be improved.