MRI Contrast Verification via RF Pre-pulse Modeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
In magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), using multiple region selective RF pre-pulses can make it difficult for operators to easily grasp the intended contrast, especially when there are overlapping application regions, leading to inverted signal regions and complex longitudinal magnetization effects.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus and method that includes an imaging condition setting unit, a verification image generating unit, and an imaging unit, which sets conditions for applying RF pre-pulses, generates and displays contrast verification images based on application regions and pulse numbers, and performs MRI to help operators visualize and adjust contrast effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple region selective RF pre-pulses are applied to adjust contrast, then contrast adjustment capability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates because operators cannot easily grasp the intended contrast
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a simplified copy or model representation of the complex RF pre-pulse application effects. By generating visual images that copy and represent the contrast outcomes without requiring operators to mentally simulate multiple overlapping pulse effects, the system makes the intended contrast easily graspable while maintaining versatile contrast adjustment capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary visual representation system that mediates between the complex RF pre-pulse settings and the operator's understanding. This intermediary layer (the displayed images showing estimated contrasts) translates complex multi-pulse interactions into easily interpretable visual information, resolving the contradiction between versatile contrast control and ease of operation
2Reliability
If region non-selective IR pulse is applied to invert longitudinal magnetization, then contrast enhancement is improved, but difficulty of detecting and measuring worsens due to inverted signal regions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by calculating and displaying the estimated contrast outcomes before actual imaging is performed. By showing operators what the contrast will look like with the region non-selective IR pulse applied, they can understand the signal inversion effects in advance and adjust settings accordingly, making the intended contrast easy to grasp while maintaining reliable contrast enhancement
3Adaptability or versatility
If overlapping application regions of multiple RF pre-pulses are used, then contrast versatility is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple pulse interactions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses copying by creating visual representations that replicate the net effect of multiple overlapping RF pre-pulses without requiring the system to physically manage the complexity of multiple pulse interactions. The displayed images copy the final contrast outcome, allowing versatile contrast adjustment while keeping the system relatively simple
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
Enables operators to easily understand and set imaging conditions, ensuring accurate contrast representation by generating contrast verification images that illustrate the effects of RF pre-pulses on signal regions, thereby simplifying the process of obtaining desired contrasts in MRI.
Implementation Method 1
a static magnetic field magnet (21) which generates a static magnetic field in an imaging region
Implementation Method 2
a RF coil (24) which transmits a radio frequency signal for exciting a nuclear spin
Implementation Method 3
a gradient coil (23) which generates a gradient magnetic field in the imaging region
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus includes an imaging condition setting unit, a verification image generating unit and an imaging unit. The imaging condition setting unit is configured to set an imaging condition for applying radio frequency pre-pulses to adjust a contrast. The radio frequency pre-pulses includes a region selective radio frequency pulse. The verification image generating unit is configured to generate and display an image for verifying the contrast based on application conditions including an application region and an application number of the radio frequency pre-pulses. The imaging unit is configured to perform magnetic resonance imaging according to the imaging condition.