Low-Field MRI Interference Removal via Signal Comparison
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing MRI systems face limitations due to their large and complex design, which restricts physical access to patients during surgical interventions and limits the use of certain electrical and mechanical components near the MRI scanner.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that project a low-field strength magnetic field toward an object of interest, using a radio frequency pulse sequence to selectively excite magnetization, and by comparing output and sample signals to identify and adjust for interference components, allowing for improved access and component usage during MRI-guided surgical interventions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a high-field MRI system is used, then imaging quality is improved, but physical access to the patient and usage of electrical/mechanical components is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the magnetic field strength parameter from high-field to low-field (0.1-1.0 Tesla), which fundamentally alters the system's characteristics. This parameter change reduces the magnetic field's restrictive effects on physical access and component usage while maintaining acceptable imaging quality through specialized pulse sequences and interference mitigation techniques
2Measurement precision
If a high-field MRI system is used, then imaging quality is improved, but device complexity and system size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces the magnetic field strength parameter to low-field (0.1-1.0 Tesla), which simplifies the magnet system design and reduces overall system complexity. The lower field strength requires less complex shielding, gradient systems, and RF infrastructure while achieving functional imaging goals through optimized pulse sequences and interference correction methods
3Ease of operation
If low-field strength magnetic field is used, then physical access and component usage are improved, but electromagnetic interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by acquiring reference signals during interference periods (before and after the imaging signal acquisition) to characterize the electromagnetic interference. This reference data is then used to pre-compute interference templates that are subtracted from the imaging signals, thereby removing interference components before image reconstruction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using the acquired reference signals to model and characterize the electromagnetic interference environment. The interference model is continuously refined based on reference signal measurements, and this feedback loop enables dynamic adjustment of interference mitigation strategies to maintain image quality despite varying interference conditions
4Ease of operation
If low-field strength magnetic field is used, then physical access and component usage are improved, but signal quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains continuity of useful action by continuously acquiring reference signals during interference periods throughout the imaging sequence. This continuous reference signal acquisition ensures that the electromagnetic interference characterization remains current and accurate, enabling consistent interference removal across all imaging signals and maintaining signal quality throughout the examination
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 enhanced physical access and the use of various electrical and mechanical components during MRI-guided surgical interventions, while also mitigating electromagnetic interference to produce high-quality MR images.
Implementation Method 1
an array of magnets configured to generate a low-field strength magnetic field toward an object of interest located within a field of view
Implementation Method 2
a radio frequency coil assembly configured to selectively excite magnetization in the object of interest in the field of view
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides systems and methods for removing electromagnetic interference from low-field magnetic resonance images. In one aspect, a method can include projecting a low-field strength magnetic field toward an object of interest located within a field of view and transmitting a radio frequency pulse sequence to a radio frequency coil assembly configured to selectively excite magnetization in the object of interest within the field of view. The method can further include receiving an output signal from the radio frequency coil assembly during a signal acquisition period and receiving a sample signal from the radio frequency coil assembly during an interference period. The method can further include comparing the output signal and the sample signal to identify an interference component and adjusting the output signal based on the interference component.