Phased Array Coil MRI for Multi-Region Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current MRI technologies face challenges in efficiently imaging large areas, such as blood flow, due to the need for frequent coil element replacement and resetting of imaging sequences when switching between different imaging regions, making the process cumbersome and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus and method that allows for setting and acquiring imaging conditions for multiple regions simultaneously, including non-contrast-enhanced imaging, using a phased array coil system and automated data acquisition to generate image data without requiring coil position changes or sequence resets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If dedicated receiver RF coils are used for each imaging region, then imaging quality for specific regions is improved, but device complexity and operational time increase due to frequent coil replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a single phased array coil system that can image multiple imaging regions (head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, limbs) without requiring dedicated coils for each region. The coil system is designed to cover the entire body, allowing one coil to perform multiple functions across different anatomical regions, thereby eliminating the need for frequent coil replacements while maintaining imaging quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the imaging process into multiple imaging regions that can be independently selected and imaged using the same phased array coil system. The control unit enables selective imaging of different body parts (head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, limbs) through software control, allowing the system to segment the imaging task by region rather than requiring physical segmentation through dedicated coils.
2Measurement precision
If imaging sequences are reset when switching between imaging regions, then imaging conditions are optimized for each region, but productivity decreases due to time-consuming resets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring multiple imaging sequences corresponding to different imaging regions (head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, limbs) in the control unit. These sequences are prepared in advance and can be automatically selected and executed based on the chosen imaging region, eliminating the need for manual resetting and reconfiguration during the imaging process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing a flexible, programmable imaging sequence system that can dynamically switch between different pre-configured sequences based on the selected imaging region. The control unit automatically adapts the imaging parameters and sequence execution to match the specific requirements of each region without requiring manual intervention or system resets, enabling smooth transitions between regions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated coils are prepared for different imaging regions, then imaging versatility is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to frequent coil selection and replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single phased array coil system capable of imaging all major body regions (head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, limbs) without requiring dedicated coils for each area. This universal coil eliminates the need for operators to select and replace multiple specialized coils, significantly simplifying the operation while maintaining comprehensive imaging versatility.
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 easier and more efficient imaging of large areas, like whole-body blood flow, by allowing simultaneous data acquisition and image generation across multiple regions with standardized imaging conditions, reducing operational complexity and time.
Implementation Method 1
excites nuclear spin of an object magnetically with an RF (radio frequency) signal having the Larmor frequency and reconstructs an image based on NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) signals generated due to the excitation
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus includes an imaging condition setting unit, a data acquisition unit and an image data generating unit. The imaging condition setting unit sets respective imaging conditions corresponding to plural imaging regions. The respective imaging conditions include at least one non-contrast-enhanced imaging condition. The data acquisition unit acquires respective pieces of data corresponding to the plural imaging regions according to the respective imaging conditions. The image data generating unit generates image data based on the respective pieces of data corresponding to the plural imaging regions.