Intraoral MR Coil Position Correction for Dental Imaging Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic resonance tomography (MRT) systems for tooth imaging in the jaw region face challenges due to inhomogeneous magnetic fields, non-linearities, eddy currents, and patient-induced distortions, leading to poor positional accuracy, which is critical for dental applications like implant and prosthesis planning.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic resonance system incorporating an intraoral measuring device to correct MR image data by aligning measurement data from specific points within the jaw region with the reconstructed MR image data, using a combination of local coils and position detection devices, including optical and mechanical sensors, to enhance positional accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If inexpensive MR systems are used for economic reasons, then cost is reduced, but positional accuracy deteriorates due to inhomogeneous magnetic fields and non-linearities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intraoral measuring device as an intermediary system that independently measures the positions of measuring points in the jaw region. This measuring device acts as a mediator to provide reference measurement data that is then used to correct the MR image data, thereby compensating for the poor positional accuracy of inexpensive MR systems without requiring expensive high-end equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the intraoral measuring device continuously monitors and measures the positions of measuring points, and this measurement data is fed back to correct the MR image data. The correction unit uses this feedback information to transform and adjust the MR images, improving positional accuracy through iterative correction based on actual measured positions
2Measurement precision
If distortion correction methods based on calculating deviations are used, then image distortion is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of attempting to correct the MR system's inherent distortions through complex calibration procedures, the patent introduces an intraoral measuring device as an intermediary that provides independent, accurate position measurements. This mediator approach simplifies the overall system by avoiding the need for complex distortion correction algorithms and calibration procedures that would increase device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a separate measurement system (intraoral measuring device) that independently copies the measurement function needed for position verification. Rather than trying to fix the MR system's distortions, the invention uses this separate copying measurement system to provide reference data for correction, thereby avoiding the complexity of modifying the MR system itself
3Area of stationary object
If high-frequency magnetic resonance excitation signals are sent out by whole body coils, then coverage is improved, but signal quality for intraoral region deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using intraoral local coils positioned specifically in the jaw region to receive magnetic resonance signals. Instead of relying on whole body coils that provide general coverage but poor signal quality for the intraoral region, the invention employs locally optimized receiving coils that are specifically positioned to capture high-quality signals from the target area
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 system significantly improves positional accuracy of MR image data by correcting distortions caused by inhomogeneous fields and patient-induced effects, making it suitable for precise dental imaging without the need for expensive high-end MR systems.
Implementation Method 1
the nuclear spins of certain atoms resonantly excited by this high-frequency field being tilted by a defined flip angle with respect to the magnetic field lines of the basic magnetic field
Implementation Method 2
the body to be examined may be subjected to a relatively high basic magnetic field of 3 or 7 tesla, for example, with the aid of a basic magnetic field system
Implementation Method 3
using a combination of local coils and position detection devices, including optical and mechanical sensors
Data Source
AI summary
The present embodiments relate to a magnetic resonance system for carrying out magnetic resonance measurements in an intraoral region. The magnetic resonance system includes a magnetic resonance coil element and an intraoral measuring device that measures the position of a number of measuring points situated in the intraoral region.