Magnetic Material Imaging System Using 1D Field-Free Region
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging modalities for tracking surgical instruments during medical procedures, such as X-ray fluoroscopy, MRI, and ultrasound, face challenges including high radiation exposure, high costs, equipment modifications, and long acquisition times, while existing Magnetic Particle Imaging (MPI) systems are limited by their ability to image only a single point and have long acquisition times for 3D images.
Innovation Solution
A Magnetic Material Imaging (MMI) system utilizing a bi-planar configuration with arrays of elongated wire segments to generate a one-dimensional field-free region (1D FFR) within an imaging plane, allowing for the detection of changes in magnetization of magnetic material, enabling faster acquisition of 3D images by moving the 1D FFR within the imaging plane.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional MPI systems image a single point and move it relative to the object-of-interest, then sensitivity and spatial resolution are maintained, but acquisition time for 3D images becomes significantly long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a zero-dimensional single sensitive point to a one-dimensional sensitive line configuration. By arranging multiple wire segments in parallel arrays and controlling their phases, the system creates an extended sensitive region that spans across the object, enabling simultaneous detection of magnetization changes along the line and dramatically reducing acquisition time for 3D imaging
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple wire segments into parallel arrays with coordinated phase control. By merging the detection capability of individual segments into a unified one-dimensional sensitive line, the system achieves both the sensitivity of point detection and the speed of volumetric imaging, resolving the contradiction between resolution and acquisition time
2Speed
If X-ray fluoroscopy is used for continuous imaging, then real-time tracking is achieved, but ionizing radiation exposure to patient and personnel increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the ionizing radiation-based X-ray fluoroscopy system with a non-ionizing magnetic field-based MPI system. By using magnetic field interactions with superparamagnetic particles instead of ionizing radiation, the system achieves real-time imaging capabilities while eliminating harmful radiation exposure to both patients and personnel
3Measurement precision
If MRI is used for surgical tracking, then high resolution 3D images with excellent contrast are obtained, but equipment cost and operation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential imaging function from the complex and expensive MRI system by using a simplified magnetic field generation approach with wire segments and phase control. This extracted system maintains the ability to detect magnetization changes with high spatial resolution while eliminating the need for costly MRI equipment and operation infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple wire segments and phase control electronics instead of expensive MRI hardware. By using inexpensive, easily replaceable components that can be configured in various arrangements, the system achieves MRI-like imaging capabilities at a fraction of the equipment and operational cost
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 MMI system reduces acquisition time for 3D imaging, allows for real-time tracking of surgical instruments with high spatial resolution, and minimizes radiation exposure, making it suitable for medical procedures without the need for costly equipment.
Implementation Method 1
a phase-control module that is configured to control a flow of current through the wire segments of the segment pairs to generate and move a one-dimensional field free region (1D FFR) within the imaging plane
Implementation Method 2
a detection assembly positioned relative to the ROI to detect changes in magnetization of magnetic material located proximate to the 1D FFR
Data Source
AI summary
Magnetic material imaging (MMI) system including a first array of elongated wire segments that extend substantially parallel to an imaging plane. The imaging plane is configured to extend through a region-of-interest (ROI) of an object. The MMI system also includes a second array of elongated wire segments that extend substantially parallel to the imaging plane. The first and second arrays of wire segments are spaced apart with the imaging plane therebetween. The first and second arrays of wire segments form segment pairs. Each segment pair includes a wire segment of the first array and a wire segment of the second array, wherein the wire segments substantially coincide along a segment plane. The MMI system also includes a phase-control module configured to control a flow of current through the wire segments of the segment pairs to generate and move a one-dimensional field free region (1D FFR) within the imaging plane.