Low-Field MRI Patient Grounding via Electromagnetic Shielding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional high-field MRI systems are costly, limited in availability, and require specialized facilities due to their large size and high maintenance needs, while low-field MRI systems face challenges with low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) that hinder their development for clinical use, particularly at very low field strengths.
Innovation Solution
The development of a low-field MRI system that includes electromagnetic shielding to isolate electromagnetic noise from the patient, using a frequency selective mesh and a surge protection circuit to ground the patient, thereby reducing noise interference and improving image quality in unshielded environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If high-field MRI systems are used to improve image quality and reduce scan time, then image resolution and scan efficiency are improved, but cost and space requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the magnetic field strength parameter from high-field (1.5T-3T) to low-field (0.2T-0.5T) MRI operation, enabling the system to achieve acceptable image quality at reduced field strengths. This parameter change allows the use of compact permanent magnets instead of large superconducting magnets, significantly reducing space requirements while maintaining clinical utility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs permanent magnets that can be manufactured more economically than superconducting magnets, replacing expensive, maintenance-intensive superconducting systems with more affordable permanent magnet systems that have lower operational costs and simpler maintenance requirements
2Adaptability or versatility
If low-field MRI systems are used to reduce cost and increase accessibility, then availability and cost are improved, but signal-to-noise ratio deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces electromagnetic shielding as an intermediary component that blocks external electromagnetic noise from reaching the patient and imaging system. This shielding creates a controlled electromagnetic environment that preserves signal quality despite the lower magnetic field strength, enabling low-field systems to achieve adequate SNR for clinical use
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potential harm of electromagnetic noise interference into a beneficial design feature by implementing targeted shielding solutions. The shielding requirements actually help define the system's operational parameters and improve overall system design, turning an environmental challenge into a structured solution that enhances system reliability
3Ease of manufacture
If low-field MRI systems operate in unshielded environments to improve accessibility, then ease of installation is improved, but electromagnetic noise interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and isolates the electromagnetic shielding requirement from the overall system installation, allowing the MRI system to be installed in standard facilities without requiring specialized shielded rooms. The shielding is integrated as a modular component that can be installed independently, simplifying the overall installation process while still protecting against noise
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies electromagnetic shielding selectively in specific locations around the patient table and imaging region rather than requiring complete room shielding. This localized approach provides adequate noise protection for the critical imaging area while minimizing installation complexity and cost, enabling deployment in standard clinical environments
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 enables the operation of low-field MRI systems in unshielded environments, enhances image quality by reducing noise interference, and makes MRI technology more accessible and cost-effective, overcoming the limitations of high-field systems in terms of availability and cost.
Implementation Method 1
an electrical conductor electrically coupled to the electromagnetic shielding and configured to electrically couple to a patient during imaging of the patient by the MRI system
Implementation Method 2
electromagnetic shielding provided to attenuate at least some electromagnetic noise in an operating environment of the MRI system
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system, comprising a magnetics system having a plurality of magnetics components configured to produce magnetic fields for performing magnetic resonance imaging, electromagnetic shielding provided to attenuate at least some electromagnetic noise in an operating environment of the MRI system, and an electrical conductor coupled to the electromagnetic shielding and configured to electrically couple to a patient during imaging of the patient by the MRI system. The magnetics system may include at least one permanent B0 magnet configured to produce a B0 magnetic field for an imaging region of the MRI system. The B0 magnetic field strength may be less than or equal to approximately 0.2 T.