MRI-Compatible Dynamic Pressure Support for Rapid Joint Posture Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional support devices lack real-time monitoring capabilities and rapid adjustment features, hindering optimal treatment outcomes for conditions like scoliosis and stroke, and are incompatible with MRI environments due to metal structures and lack of MRI-visible materials.
Innovation Solution
A Magnetic Resonance-Compatible Rapid Dynamic Support Control System integrating dynamic composite pressure support devices with MRI-visible materials and a sophisticated pressure adjustment apparatus, enabling real-time pressure adjustments and compatibility with MRI environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional structural support systems with metal structure are used, then robust external support is provided, but they are incompatible with MRI environments and pose harm risks to subjects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes metal structures from the support system and extracts only the necessary mechanical support function, replacing it with MRI-compatible composite materials that provide equivalent structural strength without magnetic interference
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials consisting of non-magnetic structural components combined with MRI-visible materials (containing hydrogen-rich substances) to create a support system that maintains mechanical strength while being compatible with MRI scanning environments
2Stress or pressure
If conventional pressure support actuators are used, then support pressure is provided, but they lack contrast materials making it challenging to determine shape and structural deformation impact
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure actuators are constructed using composite materials that combine pressure-bearing structural layers with MRI-visible contrast layers containing hydrogen-rich substances, enabling both mechanical function and imaging visibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the concept of contrast enhancement by incorporating MRI-visible materials that appear as distinct signal patterns in MRI images, allowing therapists to visually determine the shape and deformation of pressure actuators during scanning
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex execution mechanisms are used, then selective motion control with multiple degrees of freedom is achieved, but additional weight is added and adjustment time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is divided into multiple independent pressure actuator modules, each capable of selective pressurization and control, enabling localized adjustment without requiring complex centralized mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses pneumatic pressure control systems with quick-connect couplings and programmable pressure regulation to enable rapid inflation and deflation of actuators, significantly reducing adjustment time compared to mechanical systems
Data Source
AI summary
A rapid dynamic support control system compatible with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is configured for providing corrective pressure to non-freely moveable human joints during MRI scanning to achieve a prompt and targeted posture adjustment. The system includes a dynamic composite pressure support device with MRI imaging contrast-enhancing properties. The support device includes multiple layers that include a sealing layer and an MRI-visible layer. A pressure adjustment device with an air pump and air valves regulates the support device's pressure. A control system monitors actuator pressure and dynamically adjusts pressure distribution among multiple support devices in real-time. During MRI scanning, patients wear the support device inside the MRI scanner and adjust it using a pressure adjustment circuit connected through MRI-compatible material conduits. Rapid and precise support pressure adjustments are offered in the fields of medical imaging and treatment, thereby optimizing treatment outcomes and patient comfort.