Remote MRI Scanner Control via Universal Software Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current MRI scanner control systems are limited in their ability to be controlled remotely and can only accommodate a single type of input application, restricting their functionality and operation to within the scanner room.
Innovation Solution
A software-based system that allows remote control of MRI scanner parameters through an external application running on either the scanner control apparatus or an external PC, using a software interface to translate commands into scanner control commands, enabling control from multiple types of input applications located outside the scanner room.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the scanner control system uses a single type of input application within the scanner room, then the system structure remains simple and reliable, but the adaptability and remote control capability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed to accept multiple types of input applications (infrared remote control, wireless communication, network protocols) through a universal interface architecture. This allows the scanner to be controlled from various locations and by different devices without requiring separate control systems for each input type, thereby improving adaptability while maintaining manageable system complexity through standardized processing.
Solution Approach 2:
A software interface layer is introduced as an intermediary between the external control applications and the scanner control system. This mediator translates various input formats into standardized scanner control commands, enabling remote control capabilities while isolating the core scanner system from the complexity of multiple input protocols and application types.
2Ease of operation
If the control operation is restricted to within the scanner room, then the control system remains simple and reliable, but the accessibility and operational flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The control system transitions from a single-location (scanner room only) control model to a multi-dimensional control architecture that supports remote access through wireless networks and infrared communication. This allows operators to control the scanner from different physical locations and devices, significantly improving accessibility while the modular software interface keeps the system complexity manageable.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the system supports multiple types of input applications, then the adaptability and remote control capability are improved, but the system complexity and difficulty of integration increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control system architecture is segmented into distinct functional modules: input reception layer, translation layer, and execution layer. Each input application type (infrared, wireless, network) is handled by separate translation modules that convert to standardized commands, allowing the system to support multiple input types while keeping integration complexity manageable through clear separation of concerns and standardized interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for remotely controlling parameters of an image scanning apparatus includes a software interface for translating commands from an external application for providing scanner control commands to a scanner control machine for control of the parameters; and the software interface includes syntax software for translating the commands from the external application into a given syntax for providing the scanner control commands.