Multi-sequence CT Scanning Protocol Automation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Manual setting of scan sequence parameters in multi-sequence CT scanning is inefficient and prone to misoperation, leading to cumbersome adjustments and potential errors in multi-sequence scanning procedures.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for automatically configuring scan sequence parameters, including scan start time, duration, and switching duration, to create a target scan protocol that meets preset total scan duration and shortest switching duration requirements, reducing the need for manual adjustments and enhancing operational efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual setting of scan sequence parameters is used, then flexibility in adjusting individual parameters is maintained, but operational efficiency decreases and risk of misoperation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoidscanning efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs automatic configuration of scan sequence parameters without requiring manual intervention. The computing device automatically calculates and sets scan start times, durations, and switching durations based on preset total scan duration constraints, eliminating the need for operators to manually adjust each parameter while reducing misoperation risks

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes multiple scan sequence parameters simultaneously through automated calculation. By computing optimal values for scan start time, scan duration, and switching duration based on the preset total scan duration, the system efficiently configures multiple parameters in one operation rather than requiring sequential manual adjustment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple scan sequences are configured manually, then customization for different scanning requirements is possible, but the complexity of parameter adjustment increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomization capabilityVSAvoidparameter configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The automatic configuration system serves multiple scan sequence types (CTP, CTA, etc.) through a unified algorithm. The same computing device and configuration method can handle different scanning requirements by simply changing the preset total scan duration parameter, eliminating the need for separate manual configuration procedures for each scan sequence type

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system manages complexity by automatically calculating and coordinating multiple parameters (scan start time, scan duration, switching duration) based on a single constraint (preset total scan duration). This approach maintains adaptability for different scanning scenarios while reducing configuration complexity through centralized automated computation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Duration of action of stationary object

If scan switching duration is extended, then system stability between sequences is improved, but total scan duration increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescan switching durationVSAvoidtotal scan duration
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system optimizes the scan switching duration by automatically calculating the minimum required time for system stabilization between sequences. Rather than using a fixed or extended switching duration, the computing device computes the precise minimum duration needed to maintain stability while minimizing total scan time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The scan switching duration is dynamically adjusted based on the specific sequence transition requirements and the preset total scan duration constraint. The system adapts the switching duration optimally for each transition point rather than applying a static extended duration throughout, balancing stability needs with time efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11819356B2Multi-sequence scanning methods and apparatuses, devices and CT systems
Publication Date: 2023.11.21 NEUSOFT MEDICAL SYST CO LTD
  • US11819356B2 patent drawing
  • US11819356B2 patent drawing
  • US11819356B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Multi-sequence scanning methods and apparatuses, devices and CT systems are described. A multi-sequence scanning method may include: in response to a parameter configuration command, configuring scan sequence parameters for a plurality of scan sequences in a scan protocol to obtain a target scan protocol, where the scan sequence parameters include a scan start time and a scan duration of each of the scan sequences, and a scan switching duration between the scan sequences, where a total scan duration of the scan sequences in the target scan protocol is configured to be less than or equal to a preset total scan duration, and where the scan switching duration between the scan sequences is configured in a shortest duration mode; and in response to receiving a scan command, controlling the CT system to scan a scanned object according to the scan sequence parameters configured in the target scan protocol.