MRI Wireless Coil SNR Optimization via Segmented Antennas
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless coil systems in MRI apparatuses face challenges in maintaining uniform signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) due to varying distances between transmitter and receiver antennas, leading to signal attenuation and image quality degradation, as the receiver is fixed while the element coils are movable.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus with a receiver coil, reception signal transmitter antennas, and reception signal receiver antennas, along with a signal selection unit and reception data processing unit, which optimizes the distance between the transmitter and receiver antennas through regular interval arrangement and frequency tuning to improve SNR.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wireless transmission is used to reduce cable wiring complexity, then ease of operation is improved, but signal attenuation due to varying transmitter-receiver distances degrades signal quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the reception coil into multiple element coils (first element coil, second element coil, etc.) positioned at different locations. Each element coil has its own dedicated transmitter antenna, allowing independent optimization of transmission distance for each coil element while maintaining overall wireless operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent assigns different transmitter antennas to different element coils based on their specific positions and requirements. The first element coil uses a first transmitter antenna, the second element coil uses a second transmitter antenna, enabling localized optimization of transmission characteristics for each coil element according to its specific spatial requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the receiver is fixed and element coils are movable, then adaptability is improved, but uniform optimization of transmission distance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the transmission system into multiple independent transmitter antennas, each paired with specific element coils. This segmentation allows each transmitter-receiver pair to be optimized independently for its specific distance and spatial relationship, while the overall system maintains the ability to move element coils freely.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic configuration where element coils can be moved to different positions during imaging, and the system adapts by selecting appropriate transmitter antennas for each coil element based on its current position. This dynamic assignment maintains optimal transmission characteristics despite coil movement.
3Measurement precision
If multiple element coils are used to increase reception capability, then measurement precision is improved, but cable wiring complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical cable wiring system with a wireless transmission system using transmitter antennas and receiver antennas. This substitution eliminates the need for physical cables connecting multiple element coils to the signal processing system, thereby reducing wiring complexity while maintaining the ability to receive signals from multiple coil elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal wireless transmission interface that can handle signals from multiple element coils through dedicated transmitter antennas. This universal system allows any number of element coils to be connected wirelessly, providing flexibility and scalability without increasing cable wiring complexity.
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 configuration ensures uniform transmission distances, reduces signal attenuation, and enhances the SNR, thereby improving image quality by ensuring that reception signals are selectively received and processed effectively.
Implementation Method 1
at least one reception signal transmitter antenna configured to transmit the reception signal from the receiver coil by radio
Implementation Method 2
reception signal receiver antennas arranged to receive the reception signal transmitted from the reception signal transmitter antenna
Implementation Method 3
a receiver coil configured to receive a nuclear magnetic resonance signal from an object as a reception signal
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus includes a receiver coil, at least one transmitter antenna, receiver antennas, a signal selection unit and a processing unit. The receiver coil receives a nuclear magnetic resonance signal from an object as a reception signal. The transmitter antenna transmits the reception signal by radio. The receiver antennas are arranged to receive the reception signal. The signal selection unit selects a reception signal received by a specific receiver antenna. The processing unit reconstructs an image of the object from the reception signal selected by the signal selection unit.