Abstract: A magnetic resonance imaging system is disclosed. The magnetic resonance imaging system includes a magnet core that generates a magnetic field including a plurality of magnetic field lines. The magnetic resonance imaging system also includes a plurality of gradient coils disposed along the magnet core and a plurality of gradient amplifiers. Further, the magnetic resonance imaging system includes a plurality of bus-bar conductors coupling a corresponding gradient coil of the plurality of gradient coils and a corresponding gradient amplifier of the plurality of gradient amplifiers. The plurality of bus-bar conductors is disposed along at least one of a first path extending along the plurality of magnetic field lines and a second path extending along a substantially linear direction from the corresponding gradient coil to a fringe region of the magnetic field to reduce an effect of Lorentz force on the plurality of bus-bar conductors.

Abstract: A magnetic resonance imaging system is disclosed. The magnetic resonance imaging system includes a magnet core that generates a magnetic field including a plurality of magnetic field lines. The magnetic resonance imaging system also includes a plurality of gradient coils disposed along the magnet core and a plurality of gradient amplifiers. Further, the magnetic resonance imaging system includes a plurality of bus-bar conductors coupling a corresponding gradient coil of the plurality of gradient coils and a corresponding gradient amplifier of the plurality of gradient amplifiers. The plurality of bus-bar conductors is disposed along at least one of a first path extending along the plurality of magnetic field lines and a second path extending along a substantially linear direction from the corresponding gradient coil to a fringe region of the magnetic field to reduce an effect of Lorentz force on the plurality of bus-bar conductors.

Abstract: A method and system of MR imaging where variable readout gradient filtering (VRGF) is carried out after MR data acquired during gradient field transitions has been phase-corrected. Thus, phase errors can be removed prior to VRGF re-sampling of the MR data. As such, image artifacts due to phase errors can be reduced, improving image fidelity and reducing ghosting especially for poorly calibrated systems.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method of increasing the sampling rate for MR data acquisition. By implementing ensemble sampling techniques, the present invention provides higher data sampling rates that are useful for several MR data acquisition applications including Echo Planar Imaging, Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and Sensitivity Encoding Imaging (SENSE) techniques. By multiplying an MR signal by a series of pure sinusoids having the same frequency but shifted by an incremental phase, the MR signal may be separated into a number of channels which can be sampled at lower rates by analog-to-digital converters. The output from the converters may then be reconstructed using one of a number of interpolation techniques to create a single digital channel with increased bandwidth. The single channel with increased bandwidth may then be used to acquire MR data with an improved sampling rate.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method of increasing the sampling rate for MR data acquisition overcoming the aforementioned drawbacks. By implementing ensemble sampling techniques, the present invention provides higher data sampling rates that are useful for several MR data acquisition applications including Echo Planar Imaging, Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and Sensitivity Encoding Imaging (SENSE) techniques. By multiplying an MR signal by a series of pure sinusoids having the same frequency but shifted by an incremental phase, the MR signal may be separated into a number of channels which can be sampled at lower rates by analog-to-digital converters. The output from the converters may then be reconstructed using one of a number of interpolation techniques to create a single digital channel with increased bandwidth. The single channel with increased bandwidth may then be used to acquire MR data with an improved sampling rate.

Abstract: An apparatus for supporting a patient support bridge member in an MR system where a first end of the bridge is supported by an upright support member on a first side of an MR imaging bore and the bridge extends through the bore so that a second end of the bridge extends out a second side of the bore, the apparatus including a bracket mounted to an MR main magnet on the second side of the bore and extending upwardly to contact and support the bridge there above.

Abstract: An MRI system performs a real-time scan in which image frames are produced as the image is moved to different locations in the patient. The location at which each set of image data is acquired is compared, and image data acquired at the same location are combined to improve image quality. An autonex feature enables averaging of successive image data acquisitions and a frame rate feature enables combining of partial NEX acquisitions.

Abstract: An open architecture magnetic resonance imaging permanent magnet assembly with moveable magnets and adjustable field inclination with automatic magnetic field homogeneity shimming to enhance imaging and positioning of the magnetic field about the portion of the patient to be imaged while enabling interventional physician access.