Magnetic Resonance Fingerprinting Dictionary Compression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) reconstruction is challenged by long scanning times due to the need for large dictionaries that are only compatible with predefined lengths of signal evolutions, limiting flexibility and increasing processing time.
Innovation Solution
A transformation matrix is used to adapt the magnetic resonance fingerprinting dictionary to match the length of the currently acquired signal evolution, allowing for the creation of a second dictionary with a shorter length, thereby reducing storage space and processing time while maintaining accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a large dictionary is used for MRF reconstruction, then accuracy is maintained, but processing time and storage space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the dictionary into multiple smaller sub-dictionaries, each corresponding to a specific range of tissue parameters (e.g., T1, T2 values). Instead of searching through one large dictionary, the method divides the parameter space and creates separate dictionaries for each segment, reducing the search space and processing time while maintaining comprehensive coverage of all possible tissue types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic dictionary selection by adapting the dictionary size and composition based on the specific imaging scenario, tissue type being examined, and scan time constraints. The system can dynamically adjust which sub-dictionary to use or how many dictionary entries to include, optimizing the balance between reconstruction accuracy and processing speed for each specific case.
2Measurement precision
If a large dictionary is used for MRF reconstruction, then accuracy is maintained, but storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the dictionary into multiple smaller sub-dictionaries, each corresponding to a specific range of tissue parameters (e.g., T1, T2 values). Instead of searching through one large dictionary, the method divides the parameter space and creates separate dictionaries for each segment, reducing the search space and processing time while maintaining comprehensive coverage of all possible tissue types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal framework where a set of modular sub-dictionaries can handle multiple different reconstruction scenarios. The same segmented dictionary structure can be applied to different tissue types, imaging sequences, and clinical applications, making the storage solution versatile and adaptable rather than requiring separate large dictionaries for each scenario.
3Productivity
If the dictionary is adapted to match signal evolution length, then processing efficiency improves, but dictionary compatibility becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary organization of the dictionary into standardized sub-dictionaries with predefined parameter ranges and structures before the actual reconstruction process. This pre-segmentation and pre-organization allows the system to quickly select and load only the relevant sub-dictionary for the current imaging scenario, avoiding the need to manage and search through a single large unstructured dictionary during time-critical reconstruction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer (the segmented dictionary structure with defined interfaces and selection criteria) that mediates between the raw signal data and the reconstruction algorithm. This intermediary organization allows efficient matching of signal evolution length to appropriate dictionary subsets while providing a systematic way to manage complexity through clear structural boundaries and selection rules.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques are disclosed for providing a first magnetic resonance fingerprinting dictionary using fingerprints having a first length. A transformation matrix is also utilized that is configured to shorten the fingerprints to a second length that is shorter than the first length. A second magnetic resonance fingerprinting dictionary may then be obtained by multiplying the first magnetic resonance fingerprinting dictionary with the transformation matrix, with the fingerprints of the magnetic resonance fingerprinting dictionary having the second length. This facilitates the storage of a MRF dictionary that takes up less storage space and decreases the time taken to perform scanning operations.