MRI Acquisition Parameter Automation via Alignment Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems face inefficiencies and reduced image quality due to the need for manual, time-consuming patient-specific adjustments of acquisition parameters, which are complex and interact multidimensionally, limiting operator options and overview.
Innovation Solution
The method utilizes result data from alignment operations to semi-automatically or fully automatically determine acquisition parameters, including pulse shape and other settings, to optimize image acquisition based on patient-specific conditions, such as B0 and B1 field maps, SAR reserves, and physiological information, thereby improving acquisition efficiency and image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual patient-specific adjustments of acquisition parameters are performed, then image quality can be optimized for individual patients, but the process becomes time-consuming and operator expertise is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines optimal acquisition parameters by utilizing alignment result data (B0 and B1 field maps, SAR reserves) without requiring manual operator intervention. The control computer autonomously processes the alignment data and selects acquisition parameters, enabling the system to serve itself rather than relying on operator expertise and manual adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
Alignment operations (shim adjustments, B0/B1 mapping, SAR calculation) are performed before the actual image acquisition to pre-determine the optimal acquisition parameters. This preliminary characterization of patient-specific conditions enables automatic parameter selection during the subsequent acquisition phase, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual adjustments at that stage.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment of multiple acquisition parameters is performed, then patient-specific optimization is possible, but the complexity of the parameter space makes comprehensive adjustment infeasible
Solution Approach 1:
The control computer acts as an intermediary that automatically processes alignment result data and determines optimal acquisition parameters. This intermediary system bridges the gap between the complex multidimensional parameter space and the need for patient-specific optimization, performing the complex calculations and selections that would be infeasible for manual operator adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical process of operator adjustment is replaced with an automated computational system. The control computer uses algorithms to process alignment data and determine acquisition parameters, substituting the manual mechanical adjustment process with an automated information-processing system that can handle the complexity of the parameter space.
3Productivity
If robust magnetic resonance sequences are used, then acquisition efficiency is maintained, but patient-specific variations in acquisition conditions result in image quality degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The system determines acquisition parameters that are specifically tailored to the local patient-specific conditions characterized by alignment operations. Rather than using a single robust sequence for all patients, the control computer selects and adjusts parameters locally for each patient based on their unique B0/B1 field characteristics and SAR reserves, optimizing image quality for each individual case.
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 allows for optimized MRI acquisition parameters to be determined automatically, reducing acquisition time and electromagnetic exposure while enhancing image quality, and can be integrated into software frameworks for improved examination strategies.
Implementation Method 1
Magnetic resonance imaging has become a widely used standard
Implementation Method 2
transmitter voltages, which define the strength of the radio-frequency excitation to be brought about by radio-frequency pulses
Data Source
AI summary
In a magnetic resonance facility and operating method for acquiring image data of a patient in a manner defined by acquisition parameters, the acquisition of the image data is preceded by the performance of at least one alignment operation for adjusting operating parameters of the magnetic resonance facility that influence acquisition conditions for the current patient. At least one result data item describing the result of the alignment used for an at least partially automatic determination of at least one acquisition parameter not relating to the pulse shape of a radio-frequency pulse to be used during the acquisition.