MRI RF Coil Positioning via Optical Image Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
The reproducibility of imaging in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) devices is affected by the variable attachment position of the radio frequency (RF) coil, leading to inconsistencies in image quality and difficulty in detecting minute abnormalities.
Innovation Solution
The MRI device incorporates processing circuitry that obtains image-related information from optical photographs of the test subject and RF coil, selects statistical information about the RF coil's attachment position, and outputs this information to enhance consistent attachment and improve image reproducibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the RF coil is attached manually to the test subject, then the operation is simple and quick, but the attachment position varies leading to poor image reproducibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical attachment with an automated optical measurement system. A camera captures images of the test subject and RF coil, and processing circuitry automatically determines the attachment position based on image analysis, eliminating manual positioning errors while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy of the attachment position through camera imaging. By capturing images and analyzing them to determine attachment positions, the system establishes a reproducible reference that can be compared across different imaging sessions, ensuring consistent RF coil placement without manual intervention
2Manufacturing precision
If the RF coil attachment position is not standardized, then the ease of operation is maintained, but the image quality consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-measurement and self-validation of the attachment position. The camera automatically captures images, the processing circuitry analyzes them to determine position, and the system provides feedback for adjustment, enabling precise positioning without requiring operator expertise or complex procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement system between the operator and the RF coil attachment. The camera and image processing act as intermediaries that objectively measure and verify the attachment position, providing a reference that guides precise positioning while simplifying the operator's task
3Measurement precision
If manual attachment method is used, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision of attachment position is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual estimation with an automated optical measurement system. A camera captures high-resolution images, and processing circuitry automatically analyzes these images to precisely determine the attachment position, providing objective and repeatable measurements without complex mechanical positioning devices
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy of the attachment position through image capture and analysis. This visual record serves as a precise measurement that can be stored, compared, and used for reproduction, achieving high measurement precision through optical copying rather than mechanical measurement
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic resonance imaging device according to an embodiment includes a processing circuitry. The processing circuitry obtains, from an image of a test subject taken by an optical photographing device, image-related information regarding at least either the test subject or a radio frequency (RF) coil attached to the test subject. Then, the processing circuitry selects statistical information about the attachment position of the RF coil based on the image-related information. Subsequently, the processing circuitry outputs the attachment position of the RF coil corresponding to the statistical information.