MRI Coil Element Segmentation for Signal Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic resonance measurement techniques face challenges in effectively separating and utilizing pilot tone signals for physiological movement correction, leading to potential image artifacts and inefficient use of coil elements for both imaging and movement information acquisition.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the targeted selection of distinct sets of coil elements for receiving magnetic resonance signals and pilot tone signals, allowing for separate determination of magnetic resonance images and movement information, thereby optimizing the use of coil elements for their respective purposes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the same coil elements are used for both receiving magnetic resonance signals and pilot tone signals, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to signal interference and artifacts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the coil elements into at least two separate sets: a first set dedicated to receiving magnetic resonance signals for imaging, and a second set dedicated to receiving pilot tone signals for movement detection. This segmentation eliminates signal interference between the two functions while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the pilot tone signal reception function from the general coil element pool and assigns it to a specific separate set of coil elements. This extraction ensures that pilot tone signals are received exclusively by designated coils, preventing contamination of magnetic resonance signals with pilot tone artifacts.
2Measurement precision
If coil elements are dedicated exclusively to either imaging or movement detection, then the measurement precision improves, but the device complexity increases due to separate coil sets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a unified coil element system where multiple coil elements serve dual purposes: they can be selectively assigned to the first set for magnetic resonance imaging or to the second set for pilot tone signal reception. This multi-functionality allows the same physical coil elements to support both imaging and movement detection needs without requiring completely separate hardware systems.
3Reliability
If pilot tone signals are used for movement correction, then the reliability of movement information improves, but image quality deteriorates due to potential signal contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a signal separation mechanism where pilot tone signals and magnetic resonance signals are received by distinct coil sets, acting as intermediaries that prevent direct contamination. The separate coil sets serve as mediators that allow both signal types to coexist in the same system without mutual interference, with each set exclusively processing its designated signal type.
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 enhances the quality of magnetic resonance images by reducing artifacts and improves the accuracy of movement information acquisition, enabling better synchronization and monitoring during magnetic resonance measurements.
Implementation Method 1
imaging using magnetic resonance (MR), also known as magnetic resonance imaging (MRT, English Magnetic Resonance Imaging, MRI)
Implementation Method 2
high-frequency (HF, radio-frequency, RF) pulses to generate an HF field and gradient pulses to generate magnetic field gradients are radiated into an examination area
Implementation Method 3
The magnetic resonance signals are received by the magnetic resonance device... local receiving coils, so-called local coils, are preferably used, which are arranged directly on the patient to achieve a better signal-to-noise ratio
Implementation Method 4
a weak, sufficiently constant, in particular with regard to amplitude and/or frequency, HF signal is usually emitted by a usually small pilot tone signal generator. The emitted signal interacts with the patient and is then received as a pilot tone signal by coil elements
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for performing a magnetic resonance measurement, a magnetic resonance device and a computer program product.The method comprises selecting a first set of coil elements from the plurality of coil elements, and a second set of coil elements from the plurality of coil elements, performing a magnetic resonance measurement, wherein magnetic resonance signals and pilot tone signals are received during the magnetic resonance measurement with the first set of coil elements and the second set of coil elements, determining at least one magnetic resonance image solely on the basis of magnetic resonance signals received during the magnetic resonance measurement with the first set of coil elements, and determining patient movement information solely on the basis of pilot tone signals received during the magnetic resonance measurement with the second set of coil elements, characterized in that the first set of coil elements is not identical to the second set of coil elements.