Split Magnet-Coil CT-MRI Layout for X-Ray Gap Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrating CT and MRI systems poses challenges due to magnetic field interference and mechanical constraints, leading to image registration issues, extended scan times, and inefficiencies in patient handling, particularly in critical care scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid CT-MRI system with an MR subsystem producing an ultra-low-field inhomogeneous magnetic field, using neodymium alloy magnets in Halbach arrays, and a CT subsystem with a rotatable x-ray support, allowing integration and reduced electromagnetic interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If CT and MRI systems are integrated into a hybrid system, then imaging efficiency and patient handling are improved, but magnetic field interference and mechanical constraints worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The MRI system is divided into two separate magnet-coil assemblies (first and second assemblies with respective magnet structures and gradient coils) positioned at different locations. This segmentation allows the CT subsystem to operate independently without magnetic field interference while maintaining MRI functionality, thus resolving the contradiction between integration benefits and magnetic interference issues.
Solution Approach 2:
A gap is introduced between the first and second magnet-coil assemblies to facilitate the transmission of x-ray beams from the CT subsystem. This intermediary space acts as a mediator that allows both MRI and CT components to coexist and function simultaneously without mutual interference, enabling improved imaging efficiency while avoiding magnetic field interference.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If separate scanners are used for CT and MRI, then magnetic field interference is avoided, but image registration uncertainty and extended scan times occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges CT and MRI systems into a single hybrid scanner with a unified patient table and integrated control systems. This combining allows simultaneous operation of both modalities on the same patient without requiring physical transfer between scanners, thereby reducing scan time and eliminating registration uncertainty while maintaining functional separation through the gap design.
3Volume of moving object
If magnet structures are positioned close together, then system compactness is improved, but x-ray beam transmission is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The magnet structures are arranged in a spatial configuration where the gap between them is oriented to allow x-ray beams to pass through the space between the assemblies rather than being blocked. This dimensional arrangement enables the system to maintain compactness while ensuring unobstructed x-ray transmission for CT imaging.
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
Facilitates compact, portable, and cost-effective integration of CT and MRI components, enhancing image quality through machine learning and deep learning techniques, and improving clinical efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The first magnet structure and the second magnet structure are configured to produce an inhomogeneous magnetic field with an ultra-low-field (ULF) magnetic flux density
Implementation Method 2
each magnet structure includes a respective plurality of magnets arranged in a respective Halbach array
Implementation Method 3
each gradient coil is configured as a set of self-shielded gradient coils. the gradient coils are configured to generate a linearly varying field within a target field of view
Implementation Method 4
The gap is configured to facilitate transmission of an x-ray beam from an x-ray source to an x-ray detector
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, there is provided a magnetic resonance (MR) subsystem for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The MR subsystem includes a first magnet-coil assembly and a second magnet-coil assembly. The first magnet-coil assembly includes a first magnet structure and a first gradient coil. The second magnet-coil assembly includes a second magnet structure and a second gradient coil. The first magnet-coil assembly and the second magnet-coil assembly are separated by a gap. The gap is configured to facilitate transmission of an x-ray beam from an x-ray source to an x-ray detector. The x-ray source and the x-ray detector are included in a computed tomography (CT) subsystem.