Flexible Curved Display Structure to Reduce MRI Bore Claustrophobia
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing MRI systems fail to effectively alleviate claustrophobia in patients due to the confined MRI bore, with current solutions being costly, cumbersome, or ineffective for various procedures and patient anatomies.
Innovation Solution
A flexible, curved display is integrated into the MRI bore, utilizing a thin, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielded AMOLED display that provides a 3D experience through passive 3D technology, allowing patients to view immersive content without the need for bulky goggles, and is compatible with MRI environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a projection system with reflective mirror is used, then patients can view display content, but the system becomes time-consuming and ineffective for certain procedures (e.g., lumbar scan where feet enter first)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a 2D projection system requiring mirror reflection to a 3D immersive display system that provides depth perception and spatial awareness, eliminating the need for mirrors and improving adaptability across different scan procedures
2Object-affected harmful factors
If virtual reality goggles are used, then patients cannot see they are inside the tunnel, but the goggles may not fit all patients due to head coil size constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the display system into multiple segments including a headrest-mounted display, side displays, and foot displays, allowing flexible configuration that adapts to different patient sizes and scan requirements without needing one-size-fits-all goggles
Solution Approach 2:
The display system is designed to serve multiple functions: providing visual distraction, displaying procedural information, offering 3D imaging feedback, and adapting to various patient anatomies through configurable display positions and types
3Adaptability or versatility
If a projection screen attached to the moving table is used, then the screen moves with patients, but the patient remains aware of the ceiling and the system becomes very costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs thin-film display technologies and flexible display components that can be mounted on various surfaces including the bore ceiling and movable components, reducing overall system cost while maintaining adaptability
4Ease of manufacture
If LED lights are added to make the room feel pleasant, then the room atmosphere improves, but patients cannot see the color-changing LED once inside the bore
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces display screens and visual output devices as intermediary elements that convey visual information directly to patients within the bore, bypassing the limitation of external LED lighting that patients cannot see
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
The solution significantly reduces claustrophobic feelings by transforming the MRI bore into a comfortable, immersive environment, enhancing patient experience through a flexible and cost-effective display system that maintains MRI compatibility.
Implementation Method 1
a thin, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielded AMOLED display
Data Source
AI summary
A display structure suitable for use inside an MRI system bore to display images to a patient undergoing an MRI procedure. The display structure includes a curved display configured for fitting inside the MRI bore, and having a width and length sufficient to present images to the patient inside the tunnel. First and second EMI shielding layers sandwich the curved display.