PET-MRI Convergence System Spatial Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing PET-MRI convergence systems suffer from image quality degradation due to noise interference between PET and MRI devices, with MRI's high magnetic field and RF energy affecting PET performance, and the use of RF shielding degrading MRI image resolution and increasing system volume.
Innovation Solution
The PET-MRI convergence system is designed with the PET detector spaced apart from the MRI RF coil and RF shielding, and both are positioned on either side of the MRI region, allowing for independent data collection and image processing to minimize interference and optimize space efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If RF shielding is placed between MRI RF coil and PET detector to minimize MRI interference on PET, then PET image quality is improved, but MRI image resolution is degraded due to Eddy current generation and performance deterioration of MRI components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the RF shielding component from the system entirely. Instead of placing shielding material between the MRI RF coil and PET detector, the invention uses spatial separation and strategic positioning of components to eliminate the need for RF shielding while preventing MRI interference on PET measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a non-magnetic material as an intermediary structure positioned between the MRI RF coil and PET detector. This non-magnetic material serves as a physical barrier that blocks magnetic field interference from the MRI system while allowing RF signals to pass through to the PET detector, thus protecting PET measurements without degrading MRI image quality.
2Area of stationary object
If PET detector is placed farther from magnet bore centric point to accommodate field of view requirements, then PET field of view is improved, but gamma ray intensity is reduced due to attenuation and scattering by MRI RF coil
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the PET detector from a radial arrangement (farther from magnet bore centric point) to an axial arrangement (adjacent to the magnet bore). This dimensional change in detector positioning allows the PET detector to be closer to the magnet bore while still accommodating the required field of view, thereby reducing gamma ray attenuation and scattering losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the imaging system into distinct functional regions: the MRI region with its RF coil and magnet bore, and the PET region with its detector array. This segmentation allows each detector to be optimally positioned for its specific function without interfering with the other, enabling the PET detector to be adjacent to the magnet bore while maintaining adequate field of view coverage.
3Volume of stationary object
If PET detector and MRI RF coil are arranged in parallel to share field of view, then system volume is reduced, but noise interference between PET and MRI degrades image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the imaging system into separate PET and MRI regions with distinct detector arrays. The PET detector is positioned in the PET region adjacent to the magnet bore, while the MRI RF coil remains in the MRI region. This spatial segmentation allows each detector to operate independently with minimal interference, improving image quality while maintaining compact system volume through efficient space utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different positioning strategies to different components based on their specific requirements: the PET detector is positioned adjacent to the magnet bore to minimize gamma ray attenuation, while the MRI RF coil is positioned to optimize MRI signal reception. This local optimization of component positioning reduces mutual interference and improves overall image quality within the compact system volume.
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 enhances image resolution by reducing noise interference, improves signal-to-noise ratio, and allows for simultaneous PET and MRI data collection with reduced system volume, enabling high-contrast soft-tissue imaging without radiation exposure.
Implementation Method 1
detecting, outside the body, gamma ray generated from the interaction between the positron and the metabolites
Implementation Method 2
a MRI RF coil which is disposed adjacent to the inner wall of the gradient magnet, emits an RF pulse signal and detects MRI data corresponding to the RF pulse signal
Implementation Method 3
a gradient magnet which is disposed adjacent to the inner wall of the magnet bore
Implementation Method 4
a cylindrical magnet bore which includes an outer wall and an inner wall
Data Source
AI summary
A positron emission tomography (PET)-magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) convergence system. In one aspect, the invention may be a PET-MRI convergence system including: a cylindrical magnet bore which includes an outer wall and an inner wall; a gradient magnet which is disposed adjacent to the inner wall of the magnet bore; a MRI RF coil which is disposed adjacent to the inner wall of the gradient magnet, emits an RF pulse signal and detects MRI data corresponding to the RF pulse signal; and a PET detector which is spaced apart from the MRI RF coil and is disposed adjacent to the inner wall of the gradient magnet, and detects PET data.