MRI RF Coil Matrix Switching for Reduced Control Complexity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current MRI apparatuses with phased array coils require complex configurations for switching coil elements, which complicates the selection and use of desired coil elements for imaging.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a radio frequency coil unit with coil elements arranged in a matrix and switching parts that can switch between on and off states, connected in series by control signal lines, allowing for simpler control and selection of coil elements using fewer signal lines and control signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a phased array coil with many coil elements is used to increase imaging flexibility and coverage, then the adaptability for different imaging scenarios is improved, but the device complexity for switching and controlling coil elements increases
Solution Approach 1:
The phased array coil is divided into multiple independently controllable coil elements arranged in a matrix pattern. Each coil element can be individually switched on or off, allowing flexible selection of specific elements for different imaging scenarios without requiring complex overall system reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The coil elements are arranged in a two-dimensional matrix pattern rather than a traditional one-dimensional array. This spatial reorganization allows for more efficient control signaling, where series connections in rows and columns enable compact switching with fewer control lines compared to individual independent control for each element.
2Ease of operation
If individual switching control for each coil element is implemented to enable precise selection, then the ease of operation for element selection is improved, but the device complexity increases due to more signal lines and control circuits
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple switching parts are connected in series within the same row or column, sharing common control signal lines. This merging approach allows a single control signal to simultaneously affect multiple coil elements, dramatically reducing the total number of control lines required while maintaining individual element selectability through coordinated switching.
Solution Approach 2:
The control signal lines serve multiple functions by being shared across series-connected switching parts in rows and columns. A single control line can selectively activate or deactivate multiple coil elements depending on the switching state, providing universal control capability that reduces overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a radio frequency coil unit includes coil elements, first switching parts and second switching parts. The coil elements are arranged in a first direction and a second direction. Each of the first switching parts and each of the second switching parts are installed in a corresponding coil element of the coil elements and switch the corresponding coil element between an on state and an off state. At least two of the first switching parts are connected in series in the first direction by a first control signal line. At least two of the second switching parts are connected in series in the second direction by a second control signal line.