MR Elastography Oscillation Generator Fixation With Pressure Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing MR elastography systems face challenges with the precise positioning of oscillation generators, leading to reduced quality and statistical confidence in shear modulus quantification due to inadequate contact pressure and wave transmission.
Innovation Solution
An elastography apparatus with a fixation apparatus, pressure sensor, and output unit to ensure consistent and reproducible contact pressure, using a compressible pad and manometer to provide feedback for optimal positioning of the oscillation generator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the oscillation generator is positioned on the body surface for MRE examination, then mechanical waves can be transmitted to the organ under examination, but the positioning precision and contact pressure consistency deteriorate leading to reduced quality of MRE data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a pressure sensor that provides real-time feedback on the contact pressure between the oscillation generator and the body surface. This feedback mechanism allows operators to adjust the positioning to achieve optimal and consistent contact pressure, thereby improving MRE data quality without compromising positioning ease
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes adjustable contact pressure as a key parameter to optimize MRE measurement quality. By controlling and standardizing the contact pressure parameter through the pressure sensor and adjustable fixation apparatus, the system achieves consistent wave transmission while maintaining ease of positioning through clear parameter guidance
2Reliability
If the contact pressure between the oscillation generator and the object under examination is increased to improve wave transmission, then the quality of shear modulus quantification improves, but the patient comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure sensor provides real-time feedback on contact pressure levels, allowing the system to identify and maintain the optimal pressure range that ensures reliable shear modulus quantification while preventing excessive pressure that would cause patient discomfort
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes and maintains contact pressure within an optimized parameter range. By controlling the contact pressure parameter to remain within specific bounds, the system achieves reliable mechanical wave transmission and accurate shear modulus quantification while avoiding the harmful effects of excessive pressure on patient comfort
3Adaptability or versatility
If the fixation apparatus is made adjustable to accommodate different body sizes, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation apparatus is designed with adjustable components that allow a single device to accommodate various body sizes and shapes. This universal design approach enables the same apparatus to function effectively across different patient populations without requiring multiple specialized devices, thereby improving adaptability while managing complexity through standardized adjustable mechanisms
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
Ensures secure and comfortable positioning of the oscillation generator, enhancing the quality and consistency of MR elastography measurements by maintaining adequate contact pressure and efficient wave transmission.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure sensor (14) designed to detect a contact pressure acting between the oscillation generator (21) and the object under examination (10)
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to an elastography apparatus designed to support magnetic resonance elastography, including an oscillation generator, a fixation apparatus designed to fix the oscillation generator to an object under examination, a pressure sensor designed to detect a contact pressure acting between the oscillation generator and the object under examination, and an output unit designed to output the detected contact pressure.