MR Coil Position Detection Using Trained Comparison Models
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the position of reception coils in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems face challenges in accuracy and robustness due to variations in signal amplitude and noise levels, especially when coils are coupled or oriented differently, leading to limited precision in position specification along the read-out gradient.
Innovation Solution
A method that establishes a customized model for reception coils through a training period, correlating one-dimensional magnetic resonance data with comparison data, allowing for robust and precise position determination independent of coil shape and orientation, by averaging and weighting data to enhance signal quality and reduce noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional methods are used to determine coil position from one-dimensional magnetic resonance data, then the measurement process is simple, but the position determination accuracy is limited due to signal variations and noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by creating a customized comparison model during a training period before actual position measurements. The model is trained using magnetic resonance data and reference position information, establishing a baseline that accounts for specific coil characteristics, scanner conditions, and signal patterns. This pre-trained model enables more accurate position determination during subsequent measurements without requiring complex real-time adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by creating a comparison model that replicates the expected signal characteristics and peak structures of the reception coil. During the training period, the system captures and stores representative magnetic resonance data patterns that serve as a template. This copied model is then compared against new measurements to determine coil position, eliminating the need for direct complex signal analysis during measurement.
2Ease of manufacture
If signal maximum identification is used for position specification, then the evaluation is simple, but the accuracy deteriorates when couplings with other coils are present
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary comparison model that mediates between the raw magnetic resonance data and the position specification. Instead of directly identifying the signal maximum, the system compares the measured data against the pre-trained comparison model to determine position. This intermediary model accounts for coupling effects and signal distortions, providing accurate position information even when simple maximum identification would fail.
3Reliability
If phase-field dithering is applied to reduce noise and disruptive signals, then the signal quality improves, but the position determination accuracy along the read-out gradient direction remains insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using the trained comparison model to provide reference information that guides position determination. The system continuously compares new measurements against the stored model patterns and adjusts position estimates based on the degree of match. This feedback mechanism enables accurate position determination along the read-out gradient direction by leveraging the noise-reduced signal characteristics established during training.
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 significantly improves the accuracy and robustness of position detection for micro coils, reducing standard deviations and maintaining precision across changing amplitudes and noise levels, enabling precise localization of active instruments in MRI systems.
Implementation Method 1
one-dimensional magnetic resonance data will be recorded by the scanner
Implementation Method 2
radio-frequency (RF) micro coils tuned to the magnetic resonance frequency
Data Source
AI summary
In order to determine the position of a reception coil in a magnetic resonance (MR) scanner of an MR apparatus, wherein the instrument has a reception coil, MR data are acquired from the reception coil along one direction in the scanner, and are provided to a processor that determines a position specification from the acquired MR data. The processor determines the position specification by initially executing a training period, using a first position specification establishment method, in order to produce a training period dataset, and then the training period dataset is used to establish a final position specification with a second position specification establishment method that differs from the first position specification establishment method.