Quantitative MR Image Data Conversion Across Field Strengths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Quantitative magnetic resonance image data acquired at different magnetic field strengths can result in varying image contrast and familiarity issues for radiologists, making it difficult to compare and assess images across different scanners and field strengths.
Innovation Solution
A method that converts quantitative magnetic resonance image data from one magnetic field strength to another, allowing for the display of image data as if acquired at a different field strength, using a conversion algorithm and user-selectable field strength options, thereby maintaining image appearance and contrast consistency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If quantitative magnetic resonance image data are acquired at different magnetic field strengths, then the ability to use different scanners and field strengths is improved, but the image contrast and appearance consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms quantitative MR image data by applying conversion algorithms that adjust the data based on the relationship between magnetic field strength and quantitative parameters (such as T1, T2, ADC values). This allows image data acquired at one field strength to be converted to appear as if acquired at another field strength, maintaining appearance consistency while enabling use of different scanners
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces quantitative parameter conversion as an intermediary process between data acquisition and display. By converting the quantitative values through mathematical relationships that account for field strength differences, the system mediates between different acquisition conditions and produces consistent visual output
2Measurement precision
If quantitative magnetic resonance image data are displayed as acquired at the original field strength, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but radiologist familiarity and ease of assessment deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic conversion where the display field strength can be selected by the user, and the quantitative data are converted in real-time based on the selected display field strength. This allows the same quantitative data to be displayed in multiple different appearances while maintaining the underlying measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the display parameters of quantitative data by applying conversion algorithms that adjust quantitative values (T1, T2, ADC) according to the relationship between original and display field strengths, allowing radiologists to view data in familiar contrast patterns while preserving measurement integrity
3Stability of the object's composition
If conversion algorithms are applied to quantitative magnetic resonance image data, then image appearance consistency across field strengths is improved, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex physical re-acquisition processes with computational conversion algorithms. Instead of requiring physical adjustment of field strength or re-scanning, the system uses mathematical transformations of quantitative parameters to achieve the desired conversion, reducing mechanical and operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates converted copies of quantitative MR image data that represent the same underlying measurements but displayed as if acquired at different field strengths. These converted copies maintain all necessary quantitative information while presenting familiar appearances
Data Source
AI summary
In a method for displaying quantitative magnetic resonance image data, and a processor, and a magnetic resonance (MR) apparatus that implement such a method, first quantitative MR image data of an examination object are provided to the processor, the first quantitative MR image having been obtained using an MR scanner with a first basic magnetic field strength. The first quantitative magnetic resonance image data are converted in the processor from the first basic magnetic field strength to a second basic magnetic field strength, thereby generating second quantitative MR image data, which are then displayed.