Reconfigurable MRI Coil Assembly for Flexible Channel Upgrades
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current MRI coil systems are limited by fixed geometries, lack of modularity, and inability to upgrade channel numbers without replacing the entire apparatus, which restricts flexibility in imaging various anatomies and field strengths, and complicates parallel imaging and interventional procedures.
Innovation Solution
A separable and reconfigurable coil system that allows for optimization of coil configurations for specific imaging purposes, including bilateral and unilateral breast imaging, and supports various field strengths and nuclei, with modular design enabling easy upgrade and integration with MRI scanners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple small coils are used to image larger areas, then the signal-to-noise ratio is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for multiple coils and their coordination
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple separate coil elements are combined into a single integrated coil assembly that functions as one unified device. The coil assembly includes multiple coil elements (e.g., first coil element, second coil element) that are physically and electrically integrated, allowing them to operate together as a coordinated system rather than as separate devices that would require complex coordination mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the entire coil apparatus is replaced to upgrade the number of channels, then the adaptability is improved, but the loss of substance increases due to disposal of functional components
Solution Approach 1:
The coil apparatus is segmented into a reusable support structure and replaceable coil elements. The support structure includes mounting mechanisms and electrical connections that remain in place, while individual coil elements can be independently replaced or upgraded. This allows channel upgrades by swapping coil elements rather than replacing the entire apparatus, preserving the functional support infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is designed with universal mounting mechanisms and electrical interfaces that can accommodate different types and numbers of coil elements. The support structure serves multiple functions: mechanical support, electrical connection, and positioning, allowing it to work with various coil configurations without requiring modification or replacement.
3Measurement precision
If coils are placed in close proximity to the region of interest, then the signal-to-noise ratio is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to limited access for patient positioning and compression
Solution Approach 1:
The coil assembly incorporates movable and adjustable components that allow dynamic reconfiguration. The coil elements can be positioned at different locations and orientations on the support structure, and the entire assembly can be adjusted to provide both close proximity to the region of interest and adequate access for patient positioning and compression procedures.
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 flexible and efficient imaging by allowing optimal coil placement and configuration for different anatomies, improving signal-to-noise ratio, and facilitating parallel imaging and interventional procedures without the need for separate support structures or entire system replacements.
Implementation Method 1
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) detects the faint nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) signals given off by protons in the presence of a strong magnetic field after excitation by a radio frequency signal
Implementation Method 2
A separable and reconfigurable coil system that allows for the attachment and detachment of RF coil elements from a patient support structure
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and method for using radio frequency coil systems for magnetic resonance imaging within an open architecture apparatus is provided. The MRI coil system includes a support structure with an open architecture in which secondary support structures, compression systems and plates containing RF coil systems may be introduced. These structures and RF coils can be moved relative to the patient, or removed entirely from the system. In one embodiment the system consists of a tabletop coil system, while another embodiment consists of a dedicated stretcher design.