Adaptive RF Splitter for Ideal Current Patterns in Parallel Transmission and RF Shimming

Motivation: Traditional RF shimming and parallel transmission methods are limited by current patterns constrained by the basic coil shapes and the number of transmit coils, highlighting the need for new techniques. Goal(s): A novel RF splitting network, namely adaptive RF splitter, that can deliver any desired RF signal to the coils despite the coil structure, geometry or coupling. Approach: Utilized a novel architecture allowing for adaptive control of current ratios at the coil inputs to compensate for coil coupling. Results: The adaptive RF splitter accurately optimizes current ratios, achieving maximal B1+ and SAR efficiencies in MRI coils. Impact: A method that can directly control the current on the coil was proposed, even in cases of strong coupling between coils. This eliminates the need for specific Tx coil geometry, layout, or structure, and may enable superior pTx performance.