Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
Institute for Electronics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
Sci Rep. 2020 Jun 1;10(1):8844. doi: 10.1038/s41598-020-65634-5.
In modern magnetic resonance imaging, signal detection is performed by dense arrays of radiofrequency resonators. Tight-fitting arrays boost the sensitivity and speed of imaging. However, current devices are rigid and cage-like at the expense of patient comfort. They also constrain posture, limiting the examination of joints. For better ergonomics and versatility, detectors should be flexible, adapt to individual anatomy, and follow posture. Towards this goal, the present work proposes a novel design based on resonators formed by liquid metal in polymer tubes. Textile integration creates lightweight, elastic devices that are worn like pieces of clothing. A liquid-metal array tailored to the human knee is shown to deliver competitive image quality while self-adapting to individual anatomy and adding the ability to image flexion of the joint. Relative to other options for stretchable conductors, liquid metal in elastic tubes stands out by reconciling excellent electrical and mechanical properties with ease of manufacturing.
在现代磁共振成像中，信号检测是通过密集的射频谐振器阵列来完成的。紧密贴合的阵列提高了成像的灵敏度和速度。然而，目前的设备是刚性的，呈笼状，牺牲了患者的舒适度。它们还限制了姿势，限制了对关节的检查。为了更好的人体工程学和多功能性，探测器应该是灵活的，适应个体解剖结构，并跟随姿势。为此，本工作提出了一种基于聚合物管中液态金属形成的谐振器的新型设计。纺织集成创造了轻巧、有弹性的器件，这些器件像衣服一样穿着。一个针对人体膝盖的液态金属阵列显示出了有竞争力的成像质量，同时能够自适应个体解剖结构，并增加了对关节弯曲的成像能力。与其他可拉伸导体的选择相比，弹性管中的液态金属通过协调优异的电和机械性能以及易于制造而脱颖而出。
