Hybrid MR PET Scanner Table Cable Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hybrid MR/PET scanners face issues with unwanted PET image artifacts due to MR local coil connectors and RF shielding/trap structures, which are complex, costly, and occupy significant space, and cannot be easily removed for PET scanning mode without compromising MR scanning capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid MR/PET scanner design with a patient table that routes MR local coil connectors and cables outside the PET scanning field of view during PET scans, using flexible RF-shielded cables and traps to minimize interference, allowing for seamless transition between MR and PET scanning modes without reinstallation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If MR local coil connectors and RF shielding are permanently installed in the patient table for MR scanning, then MR image quality is improved, but PET image artifacts increase and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a movable MR local coil connector that can be positioned in different locations along the patient table. During PET scanning, the connector is positioned outside the PET field of view to avoid artifacts. During MR scanning, it is positioned within the MR field of view to enable high-quality imaging. This dynamic repositioning resolves the contradiction between maintaining MR image quality and avoiding PET image artifacts.
2Adaptability or versatility
If MR local coil connectors and RF shielding are permanently installed in the patient table, then MR scanning capability is maintained, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the MR local coil connector into a movable component that can be independently positioned along the patient table, rather than being permanently fixed. This segmentation allows the system to maintain MR scanning capability while reducing the overall complexity of RF shielding requirements, as shielding is only needed in specific regions rather than throughout the entire table structure.
3Reliability
If MR local coil connectors and RF shielding occupy space in the patient table, then MR local coil functionality is ensured, but available space for other components is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The movable MR local coil connector design allows the shielding structures to occupy minimal space at any given time, as they can be repositioned to only occupy space within the MR field of view when needed. This dynamic positioning significantly reduces the volume occupied by shielding structures compared to a permanently installed system, while maintaining full MR local coil functionality.
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 design reduces PET image artifacts, simplifies RF shielding, and optimizes space usage by keeping MR local coil structures intact for MR scanning while minimizing their presence in PET scans, enhancing operational efficiency and image quality.
Implementation Method 1
the cables have been shielded in metalized plastic coated faraday cages having RF traps to inhibit distortion of or interference with MR scanner data acquisition
Data Source
AI summary
A hybrid magnetic resonance (MR) and positron emission tomography (PET) imaging system reduces likelihood of artifact distortion in PET images attributable to MR local coil cables and connectors in the patient table. MR local coil cables coupling the MR scanner and the MR local coil connectors are oriented so that they are outside the scanner field of view when performing PET scans.