Dynamic MRI T1-Weighted Imaging via Multi-Parameter Division

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

In T1 weighted dynamic imaging, non-T1 factors such as proton density, T2* relaxation effect, and receiving coil sensitivity introduce errors and biases to signal analysis, affecting image reconstruction and physiological analysis.

Innovation Solution

Collect multiple MR data sets based on varying scan parameters and perform division operations to determine second MR data sets that minimize the influence of non-T1 factors, generating T1 weighted images with improved accuracy and sensitivity to T1 shortening effects.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional T1 weighted dynamic imaging is performed without correction, then the imaging process is simple and fast, but non-T1 factors (proton density, T2* relaxation, coil sensitivity) introduce errors and biases to signal analysis

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of T1 weighted imagingVSAvoidcomplexity of imaging process
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by acquiring MR data at multiple different flip angles and repetition times (TR values). By varying these scan parameters and performing division operations on the acquired data sets, the method eliminates non-T1 factors (proton density, T2* relaxation, coil sensitivity) to produce corrected T1-weighted images with improved accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If multiple MR data sets are acquired and processed to eliminate non-T1 factors, then image accuracy is improved, but the imaging time and data processing complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of T1 weighted imagingVSAvoidimaging acquisition time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary action by acquiring all necessary MR data sets at different flip angles and TR values in advance, before the actual T1-weighted image reconstruction. This preliminary data acquisition phase allows for subsequent division operations that eliminate non-T1 factors, ensuring accurate T1-weighted imaging without requiring repeated scans.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Quantity of substance

If standard T1 weighted imaging is used, then the workflow is straightforward, but contrast agent dose requirements are higher to achieve sufficient signal contrast

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrast agent doseVSAvoidsimplicity of imaging workflow
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical approach of increasing contrast agent dose to improve signal contrast with a computational method. By performing division operations on MR data sets acquired at different flip angles and TR values, the method mathematically eliminates non-T1 factors and enhances T1-weighted contrast, allowing for reduced contrast agent dosage while maintaining imaging quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS20250341601A1Systems and methods for magnetic resonance imaging
Publication Date: 2025.11.06 SHANGHAI UNITED IMAGING HEALTHCARE
  • US20250341601A1 patent drawing
  • US20250341601A1 patent drawing
  • US20250341601A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may include obtaining a plurality of first magnetic resonance (MR) data sets related to a region of interest (ROI) of a subject. The plurality of first MR data sets may be collected based on two or more different values of a scan parameter. The method may also include determining a plurality of second MR data sets based on the plurality of first MR data sets. Each of the plurality of second MR data sets may correspond to at least two of the plurality of first MR data sets. The method may also include generate, based on the plurality of second MR data sets, a plurality of T1 weighted images of the ROI each of which corresponds to a target time point.