MRI Image Quality Tracking with Parameter Range Warnings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic resonance imaging systems often have hard-coded image acquisition parameters that can be set outside acceptable ranges, risking the use of images that do not meet diagnostic standards, and existing systems lack effective mechanisms to prevent the use of such images.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic resonance imaging system with user-configurable parameter ranges and warning signals alerts operators to out-of-range settings, allowing for corrective action and labeling acquired data with quality indicators to ensure compliance with safety and image quality standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable image acquisition parameters are allowed to be set outside hard-coded ranges, then operator flexibility and adaptability are improved, but image quality reliability and diagnostic safety deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism by providing warning signals to operators when parameters are set outside acceptable ranges. The system monitors parameter values, compares them against predefined ranges, and feeds back warning information to the operator, allowing flexible parameter setting while maintaining quality control through continuous monitoring and alerting.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary validation by checking parameter ranges before image acquisition begins. By establishing acceptable parameter ranges in advance and checking compliance prior to scanning, the system prevents unreliable images from being generated while still allowing operators to adjust parameters within a controlled framework.
2Reliability
If parameter range checking and warning systems are implemented, then image quality reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-validation by automatically checking parameter ranges and generating warning signals without requiring external intervention. The MRI system itself monitors its own parameter settings, compares them against predefined ranges, and provides feedback, eliminating the need for separate complex validation systems while maintaining reliability.
3Reliability
If operators are warned of out-of-range parameters, then image quality reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial validation by providing warnings for out-of-range parameters rather than completely blocking operation. This approach maintains operational simplicity by allowing operators to proceed with warnings, while still improving reliability through alerting. The warning system provides sufficient information for quality control without completely restricting operator flexibility.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention provides for a magnetic resonance imaging system (100) for acquiring magnetic resonance data (144, 146) of a subject (118) within an imaging zone (108), wherein the magnetic resonance imaging system comprises a memory storing a set of parameter ranges (150). At least a portion of the parameter ranges are user configurable. Machine executable instructions cause a processor controlling the magnetic resonance imaging system to: receive (300) configuration commands (152) configured for setting adjustable image acquisition parameters (506) of a pulse sequence recipe; determine (302) if an out of range status exists by determining if any of the configuration commands are outside of the parameter range; provide (304) a warning signal (200) if the out of range status exists; receive (306) a scan status command (156) from a user interface (132); acquire (308) the magnetic resonance data by controlling the magnetic resonance imaging system using the pulse sequence recipe and the configuration commands if the scan status indicates an acceptance of the out of range status; label (310) the magnetic resonance data with a quality indicator (158); and write (312) the magnetic resonance data with the quality indicator to a computer readable storage medium.