Dipole Antenna Assembly for Capturing Images by Means of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Methods

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This invention describes a novel dipole antenna assembly designed for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), specifically enabling effective detection of signals from both hydrogen nuclei (protons) and other NMR-active nuclei (so-called X-nuclei) in clinical settings. The assembly features at least two dipole antennas that are mechanically connected but electrically isolated, crossing at a central point and arranged to provide efficient resonance in a specific spatial configuration. Key design aspects include a curved geometry, optional inclusion of a shielding cap to improve safety and signal quality, and integration with additional surface coils for enhanced multi-nuclear imaging.

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• Medical MRI scans of the brain or other body parts at clinical field strengths, particularly those requiring both proton (1H) and other nuclei (X-nuclei like 31P or 23Na) imaging.
• Simultaneous acquisition of metabolic information and conventional imaging during MRI procedures.
• Functional and spectroscopic MRI studies where imaging of more than one nuclear species is advantageous.
• Combined PET-MRI studies where the design avoids interference with PET detectors.
• Research and development of advanced MRI hardware offering improved multi-nuclear capabilities.

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• Allows efficient multi-nuclear (1H/X-nuclei) MR imaging without requiring complex or lossy decoupling circuits, thereby maintaining high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR).
• Reduces manufacturing cost and complexity by using geometric decoupling and minimizing additional electronic components.
• Improves patient safety and comfort by reducing localized SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) with the inclusion of a shielding cap.
• Flexible and scalable design that can adapt to various numbers of dipole arms and different anatomical shapes while leaving access open for patient interaction or auxiliary devices.
• Enables parallel imaging and quadrature operation for increased imaging speed and efficiency.
• Compatible with existing MRI systems and operates effectively in clinical field strengths up to 4T and potentially beyond.

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Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a dipole antenna assembly (1), wherein at least two dipole antennas (4, 5) are connected to each other mechanically but not electrically, wherein the dipole antennas cross at an intersection point and form dipole antenna arms (2a, 2b) extending from the intersection point, wherein the dipole antenna arms are arranged in a half-space.