Apparatus and method for real-time k-space mapping of the scanning operation of a magnetic resonance imaging system

摘要

The gradient coil currents driving the RF gradient coil within an magnetic resonance imaging system are noninvasively monitored with Hall-effect sensors to produce a real-time, k-space map of the scanning gradient coil currents. The k-space map, when visually depicted, readily displays imperfections in the magnetic resonance imaging scanning hardware and software, more particularly in the scanning gradient coil currents. Based on the k-space map imperfections which are determined from analysis of the k-space map, operation of the magnetic resonance imaging system may be remotely monitored in real-time, and remotely repaired or altered to improve the magnetic resonance image quality. The k-space, real-time map can also be used as a real-time system development for use as a research and design tool for magnetic resonance imaging systems.