MRI Scanning Chamber Computer for Bedside Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic resonance imaging systems face inefficiencies due to the need for operators to frequently move between scanning and operating chambers, causing delays and discomfort for patients, especially during procedures involving positioning, contrast agents, and interventional surgeries, as computers generate electromagnetic interference, preventing their placement in the scanning chamber.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that enable scanning control and image display within the scanning chamber by using a communication connection between scanning and operating chamber computers, allowing for the selection of scan protocols, queue management, and image reconstruction, with a scanning chamber computer managing localizer scans and displaying images, while the operating chamber computer initiates and reconstructs scans.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If computers are placed in the scanning chamber to enable bedside scanning control, then scanning efficiency and patient comfort are improved, but electromagnetic interference from computers deteriorates image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a communication connection device as an intermediary between the scanning chamber computer and operating chamber computer. This mediator enables control signals and image data to be transmitted wirelessly or through shielded channels, allowing computer operations in the scanning chamber without direct electromagnetic interference with the MRI system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical cable connections and traditional electromagnetic signal transmission with wireless communication or shielded signal transmission. This substitution eliminates the need for physical cables that could interfere with the magnetic field, allowing computers to operate in the scanning chamber without compromising image quality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If operators move frequently between scanning and operating chambers to control scans, then all operations can be performed with existing equipment, but scanning time and patient discomfort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functions previously located in the operating chamber with the scanning chamber by placing a computer and communication device in the scanning chamber. This integration allows operators to control scan protocols, manage queues, and monitor images directly at the patient's bedside, eliminating the need to move between chambers and reducing scanning time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables preliminary configuration of scan protocols and queue management tasks to be performed in advance in the scanning chamber before the actual scanning begins. Operators can prepare all necessary parameters and settings locally, so when scanning starts, no additional movement or setup is required, thereby reducing overall scanning time.
3Measurement precision
If localizer scans are performed to adjust patient positioning, then positioning accuracy is improved, but scanning procedures become more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where positioning images obtained from localizer scans are automatically reviewed by the operator in the scanning chamber. Based on this feedback, the operator can immediately adjust patient positioning or modify scan parameters without leaving the scanning chamber, streamlining the overall procedure while maintaining positioning accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for scanning control and displaying an image in a magnetic resonance scanning chamber are disclosed. An apparatus includes a magnetic resonance imaging system, a scanning chamber computer, an operating chamber computer, and a communication connection device; the scanning chamber computer and the magnet are disposed in the scanning chamber together; the operating chamber computer is disposed in the operating chamber; the scanning chamber computer and the operating chamber computer are connected via the communication connection device.