Vacuum Immobilizing Component with Integrated RF Coil for MRI Signal Quality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems face signal attenuation issues due to the distance between radio frequency (RF) coils and patients, leading to noise and artifacts in reconstructed images.
Innovation Solution
A device with an immobilizing component and an RF coil that can be coupled to conform to the patient's shape, featuring a vacuum or heat formable cushion with a detachable RF coil, allowing for adjustable pressure modes to minimize signal attenuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the RF coil is located far from the patient, then the device complexity is reduced, but the MR signal attenuation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The RF coil is nested within the immobilizing component, which itself is positioned within the MRI scanner bore. This nesting arrangement allows the RF coil to be close to the patient without requiring separate complex positioning mechanisms, thereby reducing overall device complexity while minimizing signal attenuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The immobilizing component serves as an intermediary structure that holds the RF coil in close proximity to the patient's body. This mediator enables effective coupling between the RF coil and the patient without requiring direct attachment or complex positioning systems.
2Loss of energy
If the RF coil is moved closer to the patient, then the MR signal attenuation decreases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The RF coil and immobilizing component are merged into a single integrated assembly. This combination eliminates the need for separate positioning mechanisms and complex mounting structures, allowing the RF coil to be close to the patient without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The immobilizing component serves multiple functions: it immobilizes the patient, positions the RF coil close to the body, and provides structural support. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
3Device complexity
If a fixed shape immobilizing component is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different patient shapes decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The immobilizing component incorporates adjustable elements that allow its shape to be dynamically modified to match different patient anatomies. This dynamic adaptability is achieved through simple mechanisms such as adjustable straps, buckles, or flexible materials, rather than complex reconfigurable structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The immobilizing component utilizes flexible materials and thin-walled structures that can naturally conform to various patient body shapes. This flexibility provides adaptability without requiring complex mechanical adjustment systems, thereby maintaining relatively low device complexity.
4Loss of energy
If the RF coil is integrated into the immobilizing component, then the MR signal attenuation decreases, but the ease of repair decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated assembly is segmented into modular sections, with the RF coil positioned as a distinct but attached component. This segmentation allows the RF coil to be easily detached and replaced for repair or maintenance without damaging the immobilizing component, thereby maintaining ease of repair while preserving signal quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The design allows the RF coil to be easily removed and replaced when needed, similar to a disposable or recoverable component. This approach facilitates quick repairs or upgrades of the RF coil without requiring complex disassembly of the entire immobilizing component.
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
The solution effectively reduces signal attenuation, improving image quality by ensuring the RF coil is closer to the patient and conforming to their shape, thereby reducing noise and artifacts in MRI images.
Implementation Method 1
The second chamber may be configured to include a vacuum or substantially vacuum space
Implementation Method 2
a radio frequency (RF) coil configured to transmit and/or receive a magnetic resonance (MR) signal
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a system for immobilizing and supporting a subject in a medical procedure. The system may include a treatment apparatus configured to generate a radiation beam, and a device for immobilizing a subject. The device may include an immobilizing component for immobilizing at least one portion of the subject, and a radio frequency (RF) coil configured to receive a magnetic resonance (MR) signal related to the at least one portion of the subject. The immobilizing component may be configured to switch between a first mode and a second mode. The first mode may correspond to a positive pressure or a constant pressure related to the device. The second mode may correspond to a space of vacuum or substantially of vacuum related to the device. The RF coil may be located in the immobilizing component according to a position where the radiation beam is incident on the device.