Synthetic Gradient Noise Generation for MRI Communication Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) systems generate significant acoustic noise due to the large static magnetic field and time-dependent gradient magnetic fields, which interferes with normal communications and can make it difficult for remote operators to assess the status of the MRI system.
Innovation Solution
A communication system that includes a local communication node with a synthetic gradient noise generation module, capable of producing synthetic gradient coil noise based on gradient coil sensor data. This system allows for the transmission of synthetic noise to remote communication nodes, enabling remote operators to experience the noise without interference and facilitating noise cancellation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If gradient coils are used to generate time-dependent gradient magnetic fields for MRI imaging, then imaging capability is improved, but acoustic noise is generated that interferes with communications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a synthetic copy of the gradient coil noise signal through computational processing of gradient coil sensor data. This synthetic noise copy is then transmitted to remote locations, allowing remote operators to hear the noise without requiring physical presence in the noisy MRI environment, thus solving the communication interference problem while preserving imaging functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a communication system as an intermediary between the MRI system and remote operators. This intermediary captures the gradient coil noise, processes it into a synthetic signal, and transmits it through communication channels, enabling remote monitoring and assessment without exposing operators to the harmful acoustic environment
2Productivity
If gradient coil noise is present during MRI operation, then imaging function is maintained, but remote assessment of system status becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a synthetic copy of the gradient coil noise that preserves the acoustic signature information. By transmitting this synthetic noise to remote operators, the system enables them to assess MRI system status through audible feedback without being present in the noisy environment, thus preventing loss of system status information
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the synthetic gradient noise is transmitted to remote operators who can then assess system status based on the acoustic characteristics. This feedback loop allows remote monitoring and potential intervention, ensuring system status information is not lost despite the presence of gradient coil noise
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed herein is a communication system (100, 400) comprising a local communication node (102). The local communication node comprises a local memory (110) storing local machine executable instructions (120) and a synthetic gradient noise generation module (122). The synthetic gradient noise generation module is configured to output synthetic gradient coil noise (126) in response to receiving gradient coil sensor data as input. The local communication node further comprises a local computational system (104). Execution of the local machine executable instructions causes the local computational system to: receive (200) the gradient coil sensor data (124) from a gradient coil sensor (314, 422); receive (202) the synthetic gradient coil noise in response to inputting the gradient coil sensor data into the synthetic gradient noise generation module; and provide (204) the synthetic gradient coil noise.