MRI Wireless Coil Clock Synchronization Without Extra Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clock synchronization methods in MRI systems using wireless coils increase power consumption and require additional links, which affect signal quality due to the need for additional modules and face-to-face transmission.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for clock synchronization in an MRI system that uses a second clock as a reference, performs coherence phase analysis with pre-stored training data to synchronize the system clock and data transmission clock without adding links, using a voltage-controlled oscillator to adjust the phase offset, and synchronizes MR data to the system clock domain.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional links and modules are added for clock synchronization in wireless coil MRI systems, then clock synchronization can be achieved, but power consumption increases and signal quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the existing wireless transmission channel to carry clock synchronization information embedded in the MR data stream. The wireless coil end generates a clock signal based on received data, and the MRI system extracts synchronization information from the transmitted data itself, eliminating the need for separate synchronization modules and reducing power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless transmission channel serves dual purposes: transmitting MR data and carrying clock synchronization information. By embedding clock synchronization data within the existing data transmission framework, the system avoids adding dedicated synchronization hardware, thereby maintaining signal quality while achieving reliable clock synchronization.
2Reliability
If additional links and modules are added for clock synchronization, then clock synchronization can be achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system leverages existing components to perform clock synchronization functions. The wireless coil end uses the received MR data to generate its clock signal, and the MRI system extracts synchronization information from the transmitted data stream, eliminating the need for additional synchronization modules and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The clock synchronization function is merged with the existing data transmission and reception processes. By embedding synchronization information within the MR data stream and using the same wireless channel for both purposes, the system avoids adding separate synchronization hardware, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable synchronization.
3Reliability
If additional modules are added for clock synchronization, then clock synchronization can be achieved, but signal quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless transmission channel performs dual functions by simultaneously transmitting MR data and carrying clock synchronization information embedded in the data stream. This approach avoids adding separate synchronization hardware that would introduce additional signal processing stages and potential sources of degradation, thereby maintaining signal quality while achieving reliable clock synchronization.
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
Achieves synchronization of system and data transmission clocks without increasing power consumption or requiring additional modules, ensuring reliable data transmission in MRI systems.
Implementation Method 1
uses a voltage-controlled oscillator to adjust the phase offset
Implementation Method 2
performs coherence phase analysis with pre-stored training data to synchronize the system clock and data transmission clock
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure describes clock synchronization in an MRI system by sending a signal containing MR data and training data from an MR wireless coil end.