Magnetic Resonance Shim Element Spatial Distribution Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic resonance scanners face challenges in achieving homogeneous basic magnetic field homogeneity, leading to lower quality image data due to environmental field interference, which existing shim unit settings struggle to address effectively.
Innovation Solution
A method to determine optimized basic shim settings for magnetic resonance scanners by calculating the spatial distribution of shim elements using an optimization function that balances homogeneity of the B0 distribution and minimizes the force acting on these elements, considering additional parameters like axial force, mass, and temperature influences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If shim unit settings are adjusted to improve magnetic field homogeneity, then image quality improves, but mechanical stress on shim elements increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the spatial distribution of shim elements through computational algorithms. The system calculates optimal positions and configurations of shim elements based on multiple parameters including magnetic field homogeneity requirements and mechanical stress constraints, thereby achieving both improved image quality and reduced mechanical stress simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional manual adjustment of shim elements with a computational optimization system. The system uses mathematical models and algorithms to determine the optimal spatial distribution of shim elements, substituting mechanical trial-and-error adjustment with computer-based calculation and simulation
2Manufacturing precision
If more shim elements are added to improve magnetic field homogeneity, then image quality improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by strategically positioning shim elements at specific locations rather than uniformly distributing them. The optimization algorithm determines which regions require shim elements and how many are needed at each location, achieving effective magnetic field homogeneity with minimal total number of shim elements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the shim unit into multiple independent shim elements that can be individually positioned and optimized. This segmentation allows the system to treat different regions of the magnetic field independently, optimizing each region's homogeneity requirements while minimizing the total number of elements needed
3Manufacturing precision
If shim elements are positioned to correct environmental field interference, then magnetic field homogeneity improves, but force acting on shim elements increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating the optimal spatial distribution of shim elements before the actual magnetic field correction is needed. The system performs computational optimization in advance to determine the best configuration, allowing the shim elements to be positioned proactively rather than reactively, thereby reducing the force required for correction
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 improves image quality by ensuring a homogeneous magnetic field while reducing mechanical stress on shim elements, enhancing the stability and safety of the scanner, preventing damage from excessive forces and ensuring accurate positioning of shim elements.
Implementation Method 1
a first optimization parameter (O1) is a homogeneity value of a B0 distribution in the magnetic resonance scanner that is set by the basic shim settings
Implementation Method 2
a second optimization parameter (O2) is a value of a force acting on the number of shim elements
Data Source
AI summary
In a method, device and magnetic resonance apparatus for determining basic shim settings for shim elements of a magnetic resonance scanner of the apparatus, an optimization function is established in a processor, which includes multiple optimization parameters, including a first optimization parameter that designates a homogeneity value of a spatial distribution of the basic magnetic field in the scanner, and a second optimization parameter that designates a value of a force acting on the shim elements. The processor is configured to calculate the spatial distribution of the shim elements by minimizing the optimization function, dependent on the first and second parameters. Shim settings for the scanner are determined using the calculated spatial distribution of the shim elements.