Fluoroelastomer Magnetic Field Probe for MRI
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic field probes used in magnetic resonance imaging systems face challenges with perfluorinated hydrocarbons, which are difficult to handle, have short T2 relaxation times, and result in low signal-to-noise ratios, making accurate magnetic field measurements time-consuming and less accurate.
Innovation Solution
The use of Fluorine 19 (19F) as the active nucleus in magnetic field probes, specifically with perfluorinated polysiloxanes, fluoride ions, and fluorine-containing ionic liquids, which offer improved T1/T2 ratios and are more stable, reducing the difficulties associated with perfluorocarbons.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If perfluorinated hydrocarbons are used in magnetic field probes, then the probes can measure magnetic field strengths, but the T2 relaxation time becomes excessively short and the signal-to-noise ratio decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameters of the fluorinated material by incorporating fluorinated polysiloxane units with specific molecular structures (containing Si-O-Si bonds and C-F bonds) to optimize the T1 and T2 relaxation times, achieving a T1/T2 ratio in the range of 1-10 which significantly improves signal-to-noise ratio compared to conventional perfluorinated hydrocarbons
2Reliability
If perfluorinated hydrocarbons are used in magnetic field probes, then the probes can function as field sensors, but the handling difficulty increases and encapsulation becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite fluorinated materials combining polysiloxane backbone structures with fluorinated side groups, creating a material that integrates the desirable properties of both components: the structural stability and ease of encapsulation from polysiloxane, and the high fluorine content for strong NMR signal from fluorinated groups, thereby improving both reliability and ease of operation
3Measurement precision
If perfluorinated hydrocarbons are used in magnetic field probes, then magnetic field measurements can be performed, but the signal-to-noise ratio becomes low and measurements become time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the molecular structure parameters of the fluorinated material to achieve specific relaxation time constants, where the modified fluorinated polysiloxane structure provides longer T2 relaxation time that maintains signal strength over longer acquisition windows, enabling faster measurements with higher signal-to-noise ratios and thus improving measurement efficiency
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 enables more accurate and efficient measurement of magnetic field strengths, allowing for precise characterization of magnetic field patterns and reduction of artifacts in MR images by providing improved signal-to-noise ratios and longer probe lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
A magnetic field probe may be constructed by taking a material which has a known Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) signal. The frequency of specific NMR resonances is a function of the magnetic field.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of measuring a magnetic field within a magnetic resonance imaging system (300) comprising a magnet (304) with an imaging zone (308) and a radio-frequency transceiver (316). The magnetic resonance imaging system further comprises a magnetic field probe (322) located within the imaging zone. The magnetic field probe comprises a fluorine sample (404) comprising any one of the following: a fluoroelastomer (700), a fluorine containing ionic liquid (600), and a solution of a fluorine containing compound. The field probe further comprises an antenna (406) for manipulating the magnetic spins of the fluorine sample and for receiving fluorine magnetic resonance data from the fluorine sample. The antenna is connected to the radio-frequency transceiver. The method comprises the steps of acquiring (100, 200) the fluorine magnetic resonance data using the magnetic resonance imaging system; and calculating (102, 206) a magnetic field strength (344) using the fluorine magnetic resonance data.