MRI Resonator Array for Higher SNR Without RF Field Risk
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines face challenges in improving the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of captured signals due to noise generated by the machine's circuitry, which limits image quality and scanning time, and existing methods to boost the signal or reduce noise have limitations.
Innovation Solution
An array of resonators, such as helical coils, is placed within the MRI machine's bore to resonate at the working frequency, amplifying the magnetic field component of radiofrequency signals while minimizing the electric field, thereby enhancing the SNR without increasing power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If parallel transmission of multiple RF channels is implemented, then imaging speed and productivity are improved, but device complexity and hardware requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the RF transmission system into multiple independent parallel channels, each handling specific k-space data. The RF system is segmented into multiple transmit channels that can operate simultaneously, enabling parallel acquisition of MRI data without requiring a complete system redesign
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal RF pulse design that can serve multiple functions across different parallel channels. The same RF pulse structure is used across all parallel transmit channels, allowing the system to handle multiple imaging tasks with a unified hardware architecture, reducing overall system complexity
2Measurement precision
If parallel transmission with multiple RF channels is used, then measurement precision and imaging quality are improved, but the number of required RF channels increases hardware complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes imaging quality by adjusting parameters within existing parallel transmission constraints rather than simply adding more channels. The system changes transmission parameters, timing sequences, and pulse characteristics to achieve high-quality images with a practical number of RF channels
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parallel transmission with a moderate number of channels that provides sufficient imaging quality for most applications without the need for an excessive number of RF channels. The system achieves adequate measurement precision with partial parallelization rather than full multi-channel implementation
3Device complexity
If conventional sequential scanning is used, then device complexity is reduced, but imaging time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic RF pulse sequences in parallel transmission channels, where each channel applies pulses at optimized intervals. This periodic action enables simultaneous data acquisition from multiple channels, dramatically reducing total imaging time while maintaining manageable system complexity through regular, predictable pulse patterns
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves continuous useful action by having multiple parallel channels acquire data simultaneously throughout the imaging process. All channels operate continuously during the scan, eliminating the idle time present in sequential scanning methods and maximizing productivity without requiring overly complex hardware
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~1D
Figure 2A
AI summary
A passive apparatus including a plurality of resonators increases signal-to- noise ratio of radiofrequency signals emitted by a specimen and captured by an MRI machine. The apparatus increases the magnetic field component of radiofrequency energy during signal transmission from the MRI machine to the specimen, and/ or reception of signals from the specimen to the MRI machine. Moreover, the apparatus enhances specimen safety by substantially avoiding unwanted generation of an electric field, or an increase in the electric field component of the RF energy. Use of the apparatus improves the images generated by the MRI machine, and/ or reduces the time necessary for the MRI machine to capture the image.