Electrophysiological Sensor Artifact Correction in MRI
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for collecting electrophysiological signals in MRI environments face challenges due to interference from magnetic field gradients, with previous solutions either being insufficient or impractical due to the complexity of connecting to MRI gradient control electronics and the inaccuracy of current measurements.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that measure and correct electrophysiological signals by directly measuring characteristics of the electromagnetic environment at the signal acquisition points, using additional sensors to account for local magnetic field and gradient variations, and processing these signals to minimize interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If additional sensors are added to measure local electromagnetic characteristics, then signal quality improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensors (electrocardiogram electrodes, electromyogram electrodes, and magnetic field gradient sensors) into a single integrated sensor device that can simultaneously measure both physiological signals and electromagnetic environment characteristics at the same location, thereby improving signal quality without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor device is designed to perform multiple functions: collecting electrophysiological signals (ECG, EMG), measuring local magnetic field gradients, and providing data for artifact correction. This multi-functional approach allows one device to address multiple measurement needs that would otherwise require separate devices
2Measurement precision
If connection to MRI gradient control electronics is established for measuring gradient currents, then interference measurement accuracy improves, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from the complex MRI gradient control electronics by using independent magnetic field gradient sensors that directly measure the electromagnetic environment. This extraction eliminates the need for complex connections to MRI system electronics while still providing accurate interference measurement data
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic field gradient sensors as intermediary devices that indirectly measure the electromagnetic environment caused by MRI gradients without requiring direct connection to the gradient control electronics. These sensors act as mediators between the MRI system and the measurement system, simplifying operation while maintaining measurement accuracy
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 approach effectively reduces interference in electrophysiological signals by directly measuring and correcting for local magnetic field and gradient disturbances, improving signal quality and reducing artifacts in MRI environments.
Implementation Method 1
carrying out a measurement of at least one characteristic of the electromagnetic environment at the level or in the immediate vicinity of the point(s) or zone(s) of acquisition of the electrophysiological signal(s) on the subject
Implementation Method 2
correct the or each SP electrophysiological signal detected and preprocessed, as a function of n of said at least one measurement signal SM
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for collecing and a device for sensing at least one electrophysiological signal, as well as to a system including at least one such device. The device for sensing at least one electrophysiological signal from a living subject subjected to at least one electromagnetic field, includes means, such as electrodes, which are placed on the subject for the physical acquisition of at least one electrophysiological signal and at least means for the pre-processing of said at least one sampled electrophysiological signal. The sensor device (1) is characterised in that it also includes additional means (7, 8) for measuring or determining at least one characteristic of the electromagnetic environment at or close to the electrophysiological signal acquisition point(s) or zone(s) on the subject.