Tunable MRI System for Multi-Field Relaxometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic field-dependent relaxometry techniques for MRI require multiple MRI systems with different field strengths, making them impractical for routine clinical implementation due to the need for subject movement and limited accessibility to multiple systems.
Innovation Solution
A method using a single MRI system that rapidly adjusts its main magnetic field strength to acquire data at multiple field strengths, allowing for the estimation of relaxation parameters and generation of dispersion data without subject movement, utilizing a tunable RF coil and broadband receiver for efficient data acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple MRI systems with different field strengths are used for magnetic field-dependent relaxometry, then relaxation parameters can be estimated at multiple field strengths, but the system complexity and accessibility are worsened due to requiring subject movement between systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by making the MRI system's magnetic field strength adjustable and tunable. The system can dynamically change its operating field strength between different values (e.g., 1.5T and 3T) without requiring physical reconfiguration or multiple systems. This is achieved through software-controlled field strength adjustment, allowing the same hardware to operate at multiple field strengths sequentially.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements the Universality principle by designing a single MRI system that can perform multiple functions: it can operate at different magnetic field strengths (1.5T, 3T, and intermediate values) to acquire relaxation data. The system also integrates a broadband receiver that can detect signals across multiple resonance frequencies corresponding to different field strengths, making one system universally capable of replacing multiple specialized systems.
2Measurement precision
If multiple MRI systems with different field strengths are used, then relaxation parameters can be measured at multiple field strengths, but the time required and subject convenience are worsened due to subject movement requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Preliminary action principle by pre-configuring the MRI system with a broadband receiver capable of detecting signals across a wide frequency range before data acquisition begins. The system is prepared to rapidly switch between different field strengths and corresponding resonance frequencies without requiring time-consuming reconfiguration or subject movement. All necessary detection capabilities are established in advance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements the Continuity of useful action principle by enabling continuous data acquisition across different field strengths within a single imaging session. The system can transition between 1.5T and 3T operations without interrupting the overall measurement process or requiring subject removal and repositioning. This continuous operation eliminates idle time associated with moving subjects between systems.
3Ease of operation
If a single MRI system is used to adjust magnetic field strength, then accessibility and convenience are improved, but the ability to maintain stable field strength for accurate relaxation measurement may be worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Feedback principle by implementing field strength monitoring and verification mechanisms that continuously check the actual magnetic field strength during acquisition. The system measures the resonance frequency of reference signals and uses this feedback to confirm that the field strength has reached the desired value before proceeding with relaxation data acquisition. This ensures measurement accuracy even as the system transitions between different field strengths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements the Parameter changes principle by carefully controlling and verifying changes in magnetic field strength as a key parameter. The system transitions between predetermined field strength values (1.5T, 3T, and intermediate values) with controlled parameter changes, ensuring that each field strength setting is stable and well-defined during its respective measurement phase. This approach maintains reliability while enabling ease of operation.
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 the estimation of relaxation parameters and quantitative physiological parameters like iron content within a clinically reasonable time, facilitating their use in clinical and research environments without the need for multiple MRI systems.
Implementation Method 1
The main magnetic field of the MRI system is then adjusted to a second magnetic field strength and second data are acquired from the subject using the MRI system while the main magnetic field of the MRI system is at the second magnetic field strength
Implementation Method 2
by sampling a first magnetic resonance signal at a first plurality of time points
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for magnetic field-dependent relaxometry using magnetic resonance imaging (“MRI”) are provided. Relaxation parameters, including longitudinal relaxation time (“T1”) and transverse relaxation time (“T2”), are estimated from magnetic resonance signal data acquired at multiple different magnetic field strengths using the same MRI system. By measuring these relaxation parameters as a function of magnetic field strength, T1 dispersion data, T2 dispersion data, or both, are generated. Based on this dispersion data, quantitative physiological parameters can be estimated. As one example, iron content can be estimated from T2 dispersion data.