MRI Magnetic Sensor Arrays for Signal Reception and Field Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems rely on complex and costly transmitter and receiver links based on the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) effect, limiting their availability for daily clinical use in hospitals due to high costs and limited universality.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of magnetic sensors, such as tunnel magneto-resistive effect sensors, to monitor magnetic field distributions and replace RF receiving coils, allowing for real-time monitoring of static and gradient magnetic fields, and improving MRI efficiency and quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If NMR-based transmitter and receiver links are used for magnetic field monitoring, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the magnetic field monitoring function from the complex NMR-based transmitter and receiver system, implementing it through a dedicated monitoring assembly with magnetic sensors that operates independently from the main imaging system, thereby simplifying the overall device architecture while maintaining monitoring capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring assembly with magnetic sensors serves multiple functions: monitoring static magnetic fields, gradient magnetic fields, and detecting metal objects. This multi-functional design replaces the need for separate specialized systems, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining comprehensive monitoring capabilities
2Measurement precision
If NMR-based magnetic field monitoring is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs magnetic sensors that are more cost-effective than NMR-based systems, accepting that these sensors may have shorter operational lifetimes but providing a economically viable solution for clinical settings where cost is a significant factor
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the complex electronic NMR-based monitoring system with a simpler magnetic sensor-based system, substituting sophisticated electronic links with direct magnetic field sensing, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining essential monitoring functions
3Measurement precision
If NMR-based monitoring system is used, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring assembly is designed to be universally applicable across different MRI system configurations, capable of monitoring various magnetic field types (static and gradient fields) and detecting different types of metal objects, making it adaptable for widespread clinical use rather than being limited to specific manufacturer systems
Solution Approach 2:
By extracting the monitoring function as a separate, standalone assembly with its own magnetic sensors, the system becomes independent from the specific NMR implementation details, enabling broader adaptability across different MRI systems and clinical environments
4Device complexity
If magnetic sensors are used for signal reception, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces magnetic sensors as intermediary detection elements that bridge the gap between the magnetic resonance signals and the processing system, providing a simplified detection mechanism that maintains adequate precision for clinical applications without requiring complex NMR-based receiver links
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
Enhances MRI efficacy by reducing costs and increasing accessibility for clinical use, while maintaining or improving imaging quality through the use of magnetic sensors that provide accurate and efficient magnetic field monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
The signal receiving assembly may include one or more magnetic sensors... at least one second magnetic sensor configured to monitor magnetic field distribution information of a static magnetic field and/or a gradient field
Implementation Method 2
In magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the magnetic fields mainly include a static magnetic field, a gradient magnetic field, and a radiofrequency emission field... the monitoring of the magnetic fields such as the static magnetic field, the gradient magnetic field, and the radiofrequency emission field in MRI is based on the spin magnetic resonance (NMR) effect
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system and method. The MRI system includes a signal receiving assembly and a data processor. The signal receiving assembly is configured to acquire a nuclear spin magnetic field signal of an object. The data processor is configured to generate a magnetic resonance image of the object based on the nuclear spin magnetic field signal. The signal receiving assembly includes a magnetic sensor array.