MRI Patient Interface Using Optical Fiber Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic resonance apparatuses face challenges in enabling a reliable and safe exchange of information between patients and medical personnel during examinations, with methods like patient call balls prone to damage and display-mirror systems causing patient anxiety and space constraints.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic resonance apparatus with a data transmission unit using optical fibers within the scanner for bidirectional communication between a monitoring user interface and a patient interface, incorporating camera systems and visual output units to facilitate safe and space-efficient information exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a patient call ball connected via compressed air hose is used for emergency communication, then the patient can signal distress, but the air hose is prone to damage during patient table movements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical compressed air hose system with an optical fiber-based communication system. The patient call button connects via optical fiber to the control room, eliminating the mechanical hose that was susceptible to damage during patient table movements while maintaining reliable emergency communication capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical fiber as an intermediary medium to transmit communication signals between the patient interface and control room. This intermediary replaces the vulnerable air hose while providing a more durable and maintenance-free transmission medium that can withstand the movement and positioning requirements of the MRI system
2Loss of information
If a display on the examination space wall with mirror projection is used for patient information, then information can be displayed to the patient, but the information size varies with distance and patient area is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the physical mirror-based optical projection system with an electronic display system that presents information directly to the patient. This eliminates the need for mirrors and complex optical paths, providing consistent information display quality regardless of patient position while maximizing the available space within the examination area
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional mirror projection system to a direct electronic display interface, potentially incorporating multiple dimensions of interaction such as touch interfaces or augmented reality elements. This provides more flexible and consistent information delivery without the spatial constraints of the mirror system
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
Ensures trouble-free, low-cost information exchange without interfering with the magnetic resonance process, enhances patient safety through real-time monitoring, and reduces patient anxiety by providing a robust and compact data transmission system.
Implementation Method 1
A magnetic resonance apparatus with a data transmission unit using optical fibers within the scanner for bidirectional communication between a monitoring user interface and a patient interface
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a magnetic resonance apparatus with a scanner, a patient receiving area surrounded at least in part by the scanner, a monitoring user interface in which monitoring and/or control of a magnetic resonance examination may be performed by a user, a patient interface, which is arranged within the scanner, and a data transceiver configured to transmit data between the patient interface and the monitoring user interface. The data transceiver may include at least one cable unit. Within the scanner, the at least one cable unit may include optical fibers.