MRI Emulation Mode for Cross-System Image Registration
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Solution Overview
Problem
MRI systems with different hardware specifications, such as varying magnetic field strengths, face challenges in image registration and quality matching during diagnostic and radiation therapy applications, leading to inequivalent image quality and registration issues.
Innovation Solution
An MRI system operates in both default and emulation modes, with default mode optimized for diagnostic image quality and emulation mode configured to mimic imaging characteristics of a reference system, using emulation control parameters to acquire and reconstruct emulated images with specific signal-to-noise ratio, contrast, and distortion, allowing for accurate image registration across different MRI systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If MRI systems with different hardware specifications (e.g., varying magnetic field strengths) are used for imaging, then imaging characteristics and signal-to-noise ratio differ, but image registration accuracy and quality matching deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies of reference MRI images by emulating the imaging characteristics of a first MRI system using a second MRI system with different hardware specifications. Through image processing techniques including noise addition, contrast adjustment, and artifact generation, the second system produces images that replicate the signal-to-noise ratio, contrast properties, and distortion characteristics of the reference system, thereby enabling accurate image registration across different hardware platforms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent systematically modifies image parameters including signal-to-noise ratio, contrast values, geometric distortion, and artifact characteristics to transform images from one system to match another. By adjusting these parameters through processing steps such as adding controlled noise, applying contrast transfer functions, and introducing system-specific artifacts, the patent achieves parameter equivalence between images acquired on different MRI systems with varying magnetic field strengths and hardware configurations
2Manufacturing precision
If default mode operation is used for optimal diagnostic image quality, then image quality is improved, but compatibility with reference system images for registration deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic image processing pipeline that adapts its processing steps based on the specific characteristics of the input image and the target reference system. The system selectively applies different processing operations (noise addition, contrast adjustment, artifact generation) in varying degrees to transform default-mode images into emulated images that simultaneously maintain diagnostic quality and achieve compatibility with reference system images for accurate registration
3Productivity
If images are acquired with different signal-to-noise ratios on different MRI systems, then each system optimizes for its own hardware, but image quality matching and registration performance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the processing parameters are adjusted based on comparing the emulated image characteristics against the reference system characteristics. Through iterative refinement of noise levels, contrast adjustments, and artifact generation parameters, the system achieves accurate matching of signal-to-noise ratio and other imaging characteristics, thereby enabling high-quality image registration while maintaining imaging efficiency
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 enables accurate image registration and improved image quality matching between MRI systems with different specifications, reducing exposure to X-rays during treatment planning and facilitating radiation therapy by simulating images with similar characteristics to those from reference systems.
Implementation Method 1
a main magnet for generating a main magnetic field within an imaging zone of the magnetic resonance imaging system
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic field gradient system for generating a spatially dependent gradient magnetic field within the imaging zone
Implementation Method 3
a radio-frequency antenna system configured for acquiring magnetic resonance imaging data from the imaging zone
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a magnetic resonance imaging system (100). The magnetic resonance imaging system (100) is configured to be selectively operated in a default mode and an emulation mode. Execution of machine executable instructions (290) by a processor (203) of the magnetic resonance imaging system (100) causes the magnetic resonance imaging system (100) to receive a selection signal selecting the emulation mode. The magnetic resonance imaging system (100) switches from the default mode to the emulation mode. The magnetic resonance imaging system (100) is operated in the emulation mode using the set of emulation control parameters (292). The emulated magnetic resonance imaging data (270) is acquired from the imaging zone (108) of the magnetic resonance imaging system (100).