Hyperpolarization System Radical Quenching and Transport

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing MRI systems face limitations in producing hyperpolarized substances due to short lifespan and the need for expensive, space-intensive equipment, often requiring on-site creation close to the MRI procedure, which restricts the number of procedures that can be performed in a day.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a cryostat for generating radicals within a substance using electromagnetic radiation, a polarizer to hyperpolarize the substance and quench the radicals, and a shuttle to transport the substance while maintaining hyperpolarization, utilizing a magnet to sustain the polarized state during transport.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If hyperpolarized substances are created using conventional methods, then the MR signal strength is greatly enhanced, but the substance has a short life span due to de-polarization by persistent radicals

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveMR signal strengthVSAvoidhyperpolarized substance life span

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by quenching the persistent radicals immediately after hyperpolarization is achieved. The system uses a quenching mechanism that activates upon exiting the polarizing field, preventing future de-polarization events. This preliminary suppression of radicals extends the hyperpolarized state from minutes to over 16 hours while maintaining the enhanced MR signal strength.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Loss of time

If hyperpolarized substances are created on-site near the MRI procedure, then the substance can be used immediately, but expensive and space-intensive equipment is required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetime to prepare hyperpolarized substanceVSAvoidequipment cost and space

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the hyperpolarization system into a portable, modular unit that can be transported to different locations. The system separates the hyperpolarization function from the MRI imaging equipment, allowing the hyperpolarization device to be moved between different MRI scanners or facilities. This reduces the need for expensive on-site infrastructure while maintaining rapid preparation capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a portable hyperpolarization device as an intermediary between the substance preparation and the MRI imaging process. This intermediary device performs the hyperpolarization function externally, then transfers the hyperpolarized substance to the MRI scanner, eliminating the need for integrated on-site hyperpolarization infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If hyperpolarized substances are created quickly for same-day MRI procedures, then the workflow is efficient, but the number of procedures that can be serviced is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of MRI procedures per dayVSAvoidhyperpolarization preparation time

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables preliminary hyperpolarization of substances in advance, allowing multiple substances to be prepared and stored in a hyperpolarized state. The extended stability of over 16 hours allows batch preparation of multiple tracers that can be used throughout the day for multiple procedures, dramatically increasing productivity without sacrificing signal quality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary 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 system enables the mass production and extended storage of hyperpolarized substances, reducing costs and increasing the number of MRI procedures that can be performed, with hyperpolarized substances maintaining their state for over 16 hours, allowing for improved imaging quality and broader application in diagnostics and treatments.

Implementation Method 1

The cryostat is operative to generate radicals within the substance by exposing the substance to electromagnetic radiation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

the microwaves transfer polarization from the persistent radicals to the nuclear spins of the substance

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMicrowave: Microwave Radiation

Implementation Method 3

The magnet is operative to generate a magnetic field that maintains the substance in a hyperpolarized state while the body is transported

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic field: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS10520561B2System and method for hyperpolarizing a substance and quenching radicals therein

Publication Date: 2019.12.31 GENERAL ELECTRIC CO

AI summary

A system for hyperpolarizing a substance is provided. The system includes a cryostat, a polarizer, and a shuttle. The cryostat is operative to generate radicals within the substance by exposing the substance to electromagnetic radiation. The polarizer is operative to hyperpolarize the substance via the radicals, and to quench the radicals within the substance by adjusting a temperature of the substance after the substance has been hyperpolarized. The shuttle is operative to transport the substance while maintaining hyperpolarization of the substance.