Low-Field MRI System Segmentation for Portable Neuroimaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-field MRI systems are limited by high costs, limited availability, and restricted access, making them impractical for widespread clinical and diagnostic use, particularly in conjunction with other modalities like EEG and surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
The development of low-field MRI systems that combine with electrophysiological devices, such as EEG, to provide affordable, portable, and flexible functional neuroimaging solutions, allowing for improved diagnostic and therapeutic applications, including EEG source localization and surgical guidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If high-field MRI systems are used to improve image quality and resolution, then diagnostic capability is improved, but cost and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the magnetic field strength parameter from conventional high-field (1.5T-3T) to ultra-low field (micro-Tesla to milli-Tesla range), fundamentally altering the operating conditions of the MRI system. This parameter change enables the use of simpler, non-superconducting magnets while maintaining diagnostic capability through specialized pulse sequences and signal processing techniques designed for low-field conditions
2Measurement precision
If high-field MRI systems are used to improve image quality, then diagnostic capability is improved, but cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs temporary, non-permanent magnets (such as handheld permanent magnets or electromagnets) that can be brought into proximity with the patient only during the scanning period. These magnets do not require expensive superconducting materials, liquid helium cooling systems, or permanent installation infrastructure, dramatically reducing both manufacturing and operational costs while maintaining diagnostic image quality
3Measurement precision
If high-field MRI systems are used to improve image quality, then diagnostic capability is improved, but accessibility and availability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the MRI system into separable components: a portable ultra-low-field magnet that can be moved to the patient's location, and separate control/electronics systems. This segmentation allows the imaging function to be delivered in decentralized settings such as outpatient clinics, mobile units, or even point-of-care environments, dramatically improving accessibility while maintaining diagnostic capability
4Measurement precision
If conventional MRI systems are used for diagnostic imaging, then image quality is achieved, but scan time is lengthy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes periodic oscillation of the low-field magnet relative to the patient during data acquisition. This periodic motion, combined with specialized pulse sequences, enables faster signal sampling and reduces the overall scan time while maintaining sufficient image quality for diagnostic purposes, addressing the time-consuming nature of conventional MRI
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
Low-field MRI systems enable widespread deployment and increased accessibility for diagnostic and therapeutic applications, facilitating the use of MRI in environments where high-field systems are not feasible, improving diagnostic capabilities and expanding surgical accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
MRI is based on detecting magnetic resonance (MR) signals, which are electromagnetic waves emitted by atoms in response to state changes resulting from applied electromagnetic fields. For example, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques involve detecting MR signals emitted from the nuclei of excited atoms upon the re-alignment or relaxation of the nuclear spin of atoms
Implementation Method 2
In one embodiment, the low-field MRI system uses a handheld permanent magnet
Implementation Method 3
MR signals, which are electromagnetic waves emitted by atoms in response to state changes resulting from applied electromagnetic fields
Data Source
AI summary
According to some aspects a system is provided comprising a low-field magnetic resonance (MR) device, at least one electrophysiological device, and at least one controller configured to operate the low-field MR device to obtain MR data and to operate the at least one electrophysiological device to obtain electrophysiological data.