MRI Array Coil Extension Conductor for Sensitivity
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current MRI technologies face limitations in achieving high-speed imaging with high-quality images due to constraints in the number of channels and signal detection efficiency of RF coils, particularly in vertical magnetic field type MRI apparatuses, where the orthogonal direction for magnetic field arrangement is limited, affecting the sensitivity and application of solenoid coils.
Innovation Solution
A high-frequency array coil design is implemented, where multiple RF reception coils are arranged to avoid magnetic coupling, with an extension conductor connecting parts of the conductor loops and an extension conductor control circuit adjusting the reception frequency, allowing for increased channels and improved sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If small-diameter RF coils are arranged in an array to increase the number of channels, then sensitivity is improved, but the width of the sensitivity area becomes narrower
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple small-diameter RF coils into an array configuration where their sensitivity areas overlap and complement each other. By arranging multiple coils with different positions and orientations, the system merges their individual detection capabilities to achieve both high sensitivity and wide coverage area simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the coil arrangement from a single plane to three-dimensional space by positioning coils at different depths and angles. This spatial distribution across multiple dimensions allows the system to maintain high sensitivity at each location while collectively covering a wide sensitivity area.
2Measurement precision
If solenoid coils are arranged orthogonal to the static magnetic field to improve depth sensitivity, then signal detection efficiency is improved, but the number of channels is limited due to orthogonal direction constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the RF coil system into multiple independent channels, each with its own coil element and signal processing path. This segmentation allows simultaneous operation of multiple coils without magnetic coupling interference, enabling increased channel count while maintaining high signal detection efficiency through orthogonal arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic shielding materials and decoupling structures as intermediaries between adjacent coils. These elements prevent magnetic coupling between orthogonal coils, allowing more channels to be arranged in the limited orthogonal directions without interference.
3Measurement precision
If the coil surface is made parallel to the static magnetic field to maximize signal detection efficiency, then sensitivity is improved, but this configuration is not suitable for vertical magnetic field type MRI apparatuses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs an RF coil array system that can be configured for both horizontal and vertical magnetic field type MRI apparatuses. By providing multiple coil orientations and adjustable positioning, the system achieves universal applicability across different magnet configurations while maintaining high signal detection efficiency through optimal coil-to-field alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs adjustable and reconfigurable coil arrangements that can dynamically adapt to different magnetic field orientations. The coils can be repositioned and reoriented to achieve optimal parallel alignment with the static magnetic field regardless of whether the system uses horizontal or vertical magnet configuration.
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 enhances signal detection efficiency and sensitivity, enabling high-quality, high-speed imaging by simulating a large current loop and improving depth sensitivity, particularly in vertical magnetic field type MRI apparatuses.
Implementation Method 1
An MRI apparatus is an apparatus that images an arbitrary cross-section across a subject using a nuclear magnetic resonance phenomenon. Specifically, the MRI apparatus irradiates a subject placed in a spatially uniform magnetic field (static magnetic field) with an RF magnetic field so as to cause nuclear magnetic resonance, detects a generated nuclear magnetic resonance signal
Implementation Method 2
an extension conductor is formed by connecting a part of conductor loops of the RF reception coils along the arrangement of the RF reception coils
Data Source
AI summary
A high-frequency array coil for an MRI apparatus includes: a plurality of coil units each of which includes a plurality of RF reception coils including a conductor loop and adjusted to receive a magnetic resonance signal; an extension conductor which includes a part of each conductor loop of each RF reception coil of the plurality of coil units and a conductor connecting the parts; and an extension conductor control circuit which adjusts a reception frequency of the extension conductor. The extension conductor is disposed so as to be wound in a spiral shape when the extension conductor is disposed on a subject and a direction of a magnetic field to be detected intersects a direction of a magnetic field detected by the RF reception coil constituting the coil unit. Accordingly, the detection efficiency of an RF coil can be increased and an image with a high SNR can be obtained.