Multi-Sensor Rod for Fast MRI Fringe Field Mapping

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Solution Overview

Problem

The manual process of acquiring magnetic field strength data outside a transport container of a mobile magnetic resonance device is time-consuming and inefficient, particularly due to the need for individual measurements at each point with a grid density of 20×20 cm or 10×10 cm up to a height of 2 m, which is crucial for ensuring patient safety.

Innovation Solution

A measuring device equipped with a sensor rod containing multiple magnetic field sensors spaced evenly apart, allowing simultaneous acquisition of magnetic field strength data at multiple points, facilitated by a travel unit with wheels and a controller for automated positioning, and a position detection unit for precise location data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual measurement at each grid point is used, then measurement precision is ensured, but measurement time increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemagnetic field strength measurement precisionVSAvoidmeasurement time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The measurement space is divided into multiple measurement points arranged in a grid pattern (e.g., 20×20 cm or 10×10 cm spacing). Multiple magnetic field sensors are distributed at these segmented positions to simultaneously capture field strength data across the entire measurement volume, maintaining precision while reducing total measurement time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The measurement system transitions from single-point sequential measurement to multi-point parallel measurement by adding spatial dimensionality. Multiple sensors are positioned at different heights (up to 2 m) and horizontal locations, creating a three-dimensional measurement network that captures the magnetic field distribution simultaneously across space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Productivity

If multiple magnetic field sensors are used, then measurement efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement efficiencyVSAvoidmeasuring device complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple magnetic field sensors are integrated into a single measuring device unit. The sensors are combined with a control unit that coordinates their operation, processes their signals, and manages data acquisition. This merging approach maintains high measurement efficiency while consolidating complexity within one integrated system rather than requiring separate devices for each sensor.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The measuring device is designed as a multi-functional system that can simultaneously perform measurements at multiple positions and heights. The control unit manages multiple sensors, positions the measurement probe, processes data from all sensors, and generates comprehensive magnetic field maps, making the device universally applicable for complete spatial characterization without requiring multiple specialized instruments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Speed

If automated positioning system is implemented, then measurement speed increases, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement speedVSAvoidpositioning system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The measuring device incorporates a travel unit with wheels that enables dynamic movement and repositioning. This mechanical mobility allows the device to be quickly transported between measurement locations and adjusted to different heights and positions, significantly increasing measurement speed compared to fixed installations while avoiding the complexity of fully automated robotic positioning systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

A control unit serves as an intermediary between the operator and the multiple sensors及travel unit. It coordinates sensor activation, processes signals from all sensors, manages data acquisition timing, and controls the travel unit's movement, thereby automating the measurement process and increasing speed without requiring complex distributed control systems for each individual component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enables quick and efficient acquisition of location-dependent magnetic field strength data, reducing installation time and enhancing the cost-effectiveness of mobile magnetic resonance devices by minimizing manual effort and ensuring accurate safety assessments.

Implementation Method 1

measuring device may comprise two or more magnetic field sensors arranged on a sensor rod

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field sensing: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS20260079219A1Measuring Device for Measuring a Magnetic Field Strength in an Environment of a Magnetic Resonance Device
Publication Date: 2026.03.19 SIEMENS HEALTHINEERS AG
  • US20260079219A1 patent drawing
  • US20260079219A1 patent drawing
  • US20260079219A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The disclosure is directed to a measuring device for acquiring a magnetic field strength in the environment of a magnetic resonance device. The measuring device may include two or more magnetic field sensors. The measuring device may include a sensor rod on which the two or more magnetic field sensors are arranged and distributed.