MRI K-space Interpolation for Undersampled Data Recovery
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current MRI technologies face challenges in reducing the time required to obtain k space data while maintaining or improving the quality of MR images, particularly in undersampled regions.
Innovation Solution
An MRI apparatus and method that involves a data processor for obtaining undersampled k space data in different regions and an image processor for interpolating unacquired line data using weights calculated from acquired line data from corresponding regions, allowing for partial Fourier reconstruction to generate MR parameter maps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If undersampling is applied to reduce acquisition time, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to missing k space data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary process (interpolation algorithm) that uses data from one k space to reconstruct missing data in another k space. The image processor acts as a mediator that fills unacquired lines by referencing acquired lines from corresponding regions, thereby recovering measurement precision while maintaining the productivity benefits of undersampling.
2Measurement precision
If full sampling is performed to maintain image quality, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to increased acquisition time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial sampling strategy where only certain regions of the k space are fully sampled while other regions are undersampled. By identifying that central regions contain most critical information and peripheral regions can be reconstructed, the system performs partial action (sampling only necessary regions) to maintain image quality while improving productivity.
3Measurement precision
If interpolation is performed to reconstruct unacquired lines, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by performing interpolation only in specific regions where data is missing, rather than processing the entire k space uniformly. The image processor identifies unacquired lines in peripheral regions and interpolates them using data from corresponding regions, applying processing only where necessary to improve measurement precision without unnecessarily increasing device complexity.
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 reduces the time needed to obtain k space data while maintaining or improving the quality of MR images by effectively interpolating unacquired line data, enabling efficient data acquisition and image reconstruction.
Implementation Method 1
Resonance of an atomic nucleus is a phenomenon wherein, when a certain high frequency signal is incident on an atomic nucleus in a magnetic state caused by an external magnetic field, an atomic nucleus in a low energy state absorbs energy of the certain high frequency signal, thereby being excited to a high energy state.
Data Source
AI summary
An MRI apparatus includes a data processor for obtaining first k space data including a first unacquired line by undersampling an MR signal based on a first value of an MR parameter, and for obtaining second k space data including a second unacquired line by undersampling an MR signal based on a second value of the MR parameter; and an image processor for interpolating a portion of first unacquired line data in the first k space data based on the second k space data, and a portion of second unacquired line data in the second k space data based on the first k space data.