Magnetic Resonance Coil Selection Using Test Image Masks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic resonance systems face challenges in selecting the optimal coils for imaging specific target organs, leading to suboptimal image quality due to insufficient precision in coil positioning and illumination zones, resulting in increased acquisition time and patient exposure.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves acquiring low-resolution test raw data using multiple magnetic resonance coils, reconstructing test image data, generating a mask defining the target organ's position and dimensions, and selecting coils based on intensity values to minimize artifacts and improve signal-to-noise ratio, allowing for real-time optimization of coil selection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual coil selection is used based on ex works specified positions and illumination zones, then the operator can perform the measurement, but the image quality deteriorates due to insufficient precision in coil positioning information
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by acquiring test raw data and generating test images before the actual measurement to determine the real positions and illumination zones of the coils. This preliminary characterization allows the system to select optimal coils based on actual measurement conditions rather than relying on imprecise ex works specifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from test images to continuously optimize coil selection. By evaluating intensity values from test images and comparing them against criteria, the system determines which coils provide optimal illumination for the target organ, creating a closed-loop optimization process that improves measurement precision.
2Manufacturing precision
If the optimal coil is not chosen for a measurement, then the image quality deteriorates, but repeating the measurement increases acquisition time and patient exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs coil selection and optimization in a preliminary step using low-resolution test data before the actual high-quality measurement. This preliminary action ensures that the optimal coils are identified in advance, preventing the need to repeat measurements and thereby avoiding increased acquisition time and patient exposure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs a preliminary measurement with test raw data acquisition that is intentionally lower in resolution than the final measurement. This partial action is sufficient for coil selection purposes and avoids the time cost of performing a full high-resolution measurement that would need to be repeated if coil selection is suboptimal.
3Measurement precision
If low-resolution test data is acquired for coil selection, then coil optimization is achieved, but additional time is required for test data acquisition and processing
Solution Approach 1:
The system acquires test raw data at low resolution specifically for coil selection purposes, which requires less measurement time and processing resources than full high-resolution data. This partial action provides sufficient information for optimal coil selection while minimizing the time investment in the preliminary step.
Solution Approach 2:
The system extracts only the essential information needed for coil selection from the test images, specifically the intensity values from regions covered by the mask and outside the mask. By extracting only this critical data for evaluation, the system minimizes processing time while still achieving precise coil selection.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances image quality by selecting the most effective coils for each target organ, reducing noise and artifacts, and optimizing signal-to-noise ratio, thereby improving efficiency and reducing patient exposure.
Implementation Method 1
antennas (called coils in the following) for transmitting radiofrequency pulses in order to excite nuclear resonance and/or for receiving the induced magnetic resonance signals
Data Source
AI summary
A method for acquiring raw data for generating image data of a target organ via a magnetic resonance system is described. In an embodiment, test raw data is initially acquired from a measurement region including at least the target organ using a plurality of magnetic resonance coils. Test image data is reconstructed from the test raw data. Furthermore, a mask defining the position and the dimensions of the target organ is generated using the reconstructed test image data. The magnetic resonance coils, to be used for the image acquisition, are then selected. This takes place on the basis of intensity values from a region covered by the mask and intensity values of a measurement region lying outside of the mask. Finally, the measurement is performed by acquiring raw data via the selected magnetic resonance coils. Furthermore, a device for acquiring raw data for generating image data is also described.