MRI Positioning Evaluation System for SAR Monitoring Safety

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Solution Overview

Problem

Inadequate positioning of examination objects on patient-positioning apparatuses in magnetic resonance units can lead to adverse effects, such as burns, due to inefficient monitoring and alignment processes.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for evaluating the positioning of examination objects using acquisition units to gather data, analysis units to determine positioning information, and evaluation units to transmit warning signals, ensuring accurate and dynamic positioning through contour and positioning information, utilizing optical and magnetic resonance signals, and adjusting specific absorption rate monitoring based on physiognomy and movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional monitoring methods are used, then the examination object can be positioned, but unfavorable positioning leading to burns may occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepositioning safetyVSAvoidburns

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary evaluation of the examination object's positioning before the MRI examination begins. The analysis unit evaluates contour information and positioning data in advance to identify unfavorable positioning scenarios, allowing corrective action to be taken before harmful effects can occur during the examination.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The evaluation unit provides feedback signals to the operator or examination object based on the analyzed positioning data. This feedback mechanism enables real-time monitoring and adjustment of positioning to prevent unfavorable conditions that could lead to burns during the MRI procedure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If positioning is monitored dynamically, then movement can be detected, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoidmonitoring system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses a multi-functional approach where the same evaluation unit handles both static positioning evaluation and dynamic movement monitoring. The analysis unit processes various types of data (contour information, positioning data, movement data) through a unified evaluation framework, reducing the need for separate specialized systems for each function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from static positioning evaluation to dynamic monitoring by continuously updating the evaluation based on movement data. The evaluation unit adapts its analysis to account for changes in positioning over time, enabling detection of movement-related issues while maintaining a cohesive system architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Manufacturing precision

If contour information is analyzed, then relative position of body parts can be determined, but processing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepositioning precisionVSAvoidevaluation time

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the examination object into distinct body parts or regions of interest for independent analysis. The analysis unit processes contour information by segmenting the object into manageable portions, which can be evaluated simultaneously and independently, improving processing efficiency while maintaining positioning precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The evaluation unit focuses on analyzing only the most critical portions of the examination object's contour information relevant to positioning safety. By prioritizing the analysis of essential features over complete exhaustive analysis, the system achieves sufficient positioning precision with reduced processing time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

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

Prevents unfavorable positioning, reduces the risk of injuries, and optimizes specific absorption rate monitoring by providing real-time feedback and precise positioning data, enhancing safety and imaging efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

The acquisition of the positioning data relating to the examination object ensues using optical signals

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectOptical signals: Light

Implementation Method 2

The acquisition of the positioning data relating to the examination object ensues using magnetic resonance signals

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic resonance signals: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS10321853B2Evaluation of the positioning of an examination object

Publication Date: 2019.06.18 SIEMENS HEALTHINEERS AG

AI summary

A method for evaluating positioning of an examination object on a patient-positioning apparatus in a magnetic resonance unit, a magnetic resonance unit, and a computer program product are provided. The method includes acquiring positioning data relating to the examination object using an acquisition unit. Using the acquired positioning data, positioning information relating to the examination object is determined using an analysis unit. Evaluation information is determined using the positioning information, using an evaluation unit. Using the evaluation information, an evaluation signal is transmitted using an output unit. Monitoring of a specific absorption rate may be adjusted using the evaluation signal.