MRI Table Speed Control via Spatial Gradient Field Curves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for controlling table speed in MRI systems result in unduly slow movement, prolonging patient transportation and imaging procedure times due to limitations in managing the varying magnetic field strength.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system that uses a processor to obtain a spatial gradient field curve and determine a table speed curve, allowing the table to move at varying speeds based on the spatial gradient field, thereby optimizing travel time while maintaining patient comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If conventional approaches for controlling table speed are used, then patient comfort is maintained, but table movement speed is unduly slow, lengthening transportation time and imaging procedure time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from constant table speed to variable table speed control. The system dynamically adjusts table speed based on the patient's position relative to the magnet bore, using a pre-computed speed profile that varies speed throughout the movement trajectory to optimize both comfort and time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-computing the optimal speed profile before table movement begins. The system calculates the speed curve based on the gradient field characteristics and patient position in advance, allowing the table to follow an optimized trajectory that balances comfort constraints with time efficiency
2Productivity
If table speed is increased to reduce transportation time, then productivity improves, but patient comfort deteriorates due to exposure to overly large changes in magnetic field strength
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the table speed parameter as a function of position. Instead of maintaining a constant speed, the system varies the speed parameter throughout the movement trajectory, allowing faster movement in regions with lower gradient field changes and slower movement in regions with higher gradient field changes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies feedback by using the patient's position information and gradient field characteristics to continuously adjust the table speed. The system monitors the relationship between position and magnetic field strength changes, adjusting speed in real-time to maintain comfort while optimizing throughput
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system includes a table and at least one processor. The table is configured to support a patient, and to travel along a length in a direction of movement through an imaging zone to at least one imaging position. A spatial gradient field varies for at least a portion of the imaging zone. The at least one processor is operably coupled to the table, and configured to obtain a spatial gradient field curve representing magnitude of the spatial gradient field as a function of position along the direction of movement; determine a table speed curve using the spatial gradient field curve, wherein the table speed varies along the direction of movement; and control movement of the table using the table speed curve.