RF Coil Position Detection for MRI Signal Selection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In MRI apparatuses, using all MR signals from multiple RF coils prolongs the reconstruction time and increases the number of images, making diagnosis inefficient, and it is challenging to automatically determine the setting positions of RF coils in the abdominal region due to their variable positions, which burdens the operator.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus with a top plate, positioning units, and a detecting unit that identifies and determines the setting positions of RF coils, allowing for selective use of MR signals from only the relevant coils, thereby reducing reconstruction time and operator burden.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If all MR signals from multiple RF coils are used in reconstruction, then complete image coverage is achieved, but reconstruction time increases and number of images increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and selects only the necessary RF coil signals that correspond to the actual imaging area, excluding signals from coils not positioned in the imaging region. This selective extraction reduces the data volume for reconstruction while maintaining complete image coverage, thereby reducing reconstruction time without sacrificing image completeness.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using all available RF coil signals (excessive action), the system applies partial action by selectively using only the subset of signals from coils positioned in the imaging area. This partial usage optimizes the balance between image coverage completeness and reconstruction efficiency.
2Measurement precision
If RF coil setting positions are manually specified, then accurate coil selection is achieved, but operator burden increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting the setting positions of RF coils and determining which coils are positioned in the imaging area without requiring manual operator input. The detection unit autonomously identifies coil positions and the determination unit selects appropriate coils, eliminating the need for manual specification while maintaining accurate coil selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical operation of specifying coil positions with an automated detection system. The detection unit uses detection means to automatically identify coil setting positions, substituting the manual operator action with an automated sensing and processing system that determines the appropriate RF coils for imaging.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple RF coils are disposed in abdominal region, then imaging flexibility is improved, but difficulty in determining setting positions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a detection unit as an intermediary between the RF coils and the control system. This intermediary contains detection means that automatically sense the setting positions of the RF coils, bridging the gap between the variable coil positions and the need for accurate identification. The detection unit mediates the complex position detection task, making it manageable despite the flexibility provided by multiple coils.
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 solution enables efficient image reconstruction by automatically detecting RF coil positions, reducing unnecessary image acquisition and minimizing operator workload, while ensuring accurate imaging by selecting the proper RF coils based on their settings.
Implementation Method 1
an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) apparatus which obtains an MR (magnetic resonance) image of an patient using a magnetic resonance phenomenon
Implementation Method 2
an applying unit that applies a gradient magnetic field and a RF pulse to the patient who is sent in a static magnetic field
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus includes a top plate on which an patient to be imaged is disposed, a plurality of positioning units that determines setting positions of RF coils detachable from the top plate in a plurality of different positions, and a detecting unit that detects the setting positions of the RF coils based on one of the positioning units that is used in order to determine the setting positions of the RF coils.