Magnetic Resonance Slice Group Planning Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic resonance imaging systems require operators to interrupt graphical planning when defining 'radial slices' by entering acquisition parameters as values, which is non-intuitive and lacks visual feedback, making the process cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A two-step graphical planning procedure is implemented, where operators select a starting slice group and axis of rotation, then use specific operator actions to adjust the slice group number and angle, with the graphical representation updated in real-time, allowing for intuitive definition of radial slice groups without entering actual parameter values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If operators enter acquisition parameters as values in an input mask for radial slices, then the angle and slice group number can be defined, but the graphical planning process is interrupted and visual feedback is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides immediate visual feedback by updating the graphical representation of slice groups in real-time as operators perform operator actions. The graphical display shows the current angle and slice group number configuration, allowing operators to see the effect of their actions immediately without leaving the graphical interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual parameter entry mechanism (keyboard input in an input mask) with a graphical interaction mechanism. Operators use mouse actions directly on the graphical representation to adjust slice group parameters, substituting the mechanical keyboard input system with a graphical point-and-click interface that maintains continuous visual feedback.
2Reliability
If operators use manual parameter entry for radial slice configuration, then acquisition parameters can be set, but the process becomes cumbersome and non-intuitive
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically calculates and updates acquisition parameters based on operator actions. When operators perform actions on the graphical representation, the system self-adjusts the angle and slice group number values and automatically updates the scan protocol, eliminating the need for operators to manually compute or enter multiple related parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a graphical dimension to the parameter setting process. Instead of working solely with numerical values in an input mask, operators interact with a visual representation of slice groups, adding spatial and visual dimensions to the parameter configuration task, making it more intuitive and easier to understand.
3Ease of operation
If graphical representation is updated in real-time during operator actions, then visual feedback is maintained, but processing load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system updates only the necessary graphical elements in real-time rather than completely redrawing the entire graphical representation. When operators perform actions, only the affected slice groups and their parameters are updated visually, reducing the computational burden while maintaining the illusion of continuous real-time feedback.
Data Source
AI summary
In a method and magnetic resonance (MR) apparatus for setting acquisition parameters of a scan protocol, in an operator control console, for a planned MR acquisition procedure of slice groups rotated with respect to one another through an angle relative to an axis of rotation, each containing at least one slice, a graphical representation of the slice groups is used for operator specification of the angle and/or the number of slice groups. After a graphical selection of a starting slice group by a user and selection of a radial slice group operating mode when a first operator action of the user is performed via an input device, the slice group number is increased while the angle is reduced. When a second operator action is performed via the input device, the slice group number is reduced while the angle is increased. The graphical representation is simultaneously updated in each case.