MRI Apparatus Multi-Delay Cardiac Phase Imaging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques for obtaining non-contrast-enhanced blood flow images require lengthy imaging times, making them inefficient for diagnostic purposes.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus and image processing system that acquires and processes data using multiple delay times synchronized with the heart rate, enabling shorter imaging times and automated image reconstruction and display processing to generate time-series blood flow images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If conventional MRI techniques are used to obtain non-contrast-enhanced blood flow images, then image quality is maintained, but imaging time becomes excessively long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the imaging process by acquiring data at multiple discrete delay times (first delay time and second delay time) corresponding to different cardiac phases. This segmentation allows the system to capture blood flow information at critical moments without requiring continuous prolonged imaging, thereby reducing total imaging time while maintaining diagnostic quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary data acquisition at optimized delay times before actual image reconstruction. By pre-acquiring data at specific cardiac phases (systole and diastole) and preparing the data structure in advance, the system eliminates the need for lengthy post-acquisition processing and enables faster image generation
2Measurement precision
If multiple delay times are used to capture different cardiac phases, then blood flow image quality improves, but data acquisition complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a universal pulse sequence design that can acquire data for multiple cardiac phases using the same acquisition parameters and sequence structure. This multi-functional approach allows the system to capture both systolic and diastolic blood flow information without requiring separate specialized sequences for each phase, thereby reducing operational complexity despite enhanced imaging capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent systematically varies the delay time parameter across multiple acquisitions while keeping other imaging parameters constant. This controlled parameter change allows the system to capture different cardiac phases with optimized blood flow signal intensity, improving image quality through parameter optimization rather than through complex multi-parameter adjustments
3Ease of operation
If manual image processing is performed for non-contrast-enhanced MRA, then processing accuracy is maintained, but user operation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service functionality where the system automatically performs image reconstruction and processing operations without requiring manual user intervention. The apparatus autonomously reconstructs images from the multi-delay-time data, applies appropriate filtering and enhancement, and generates final blood flow images, thereby dramatically reducing user operation time while maintaining processing accuracy through algorithmic consistency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the system automatically adjusts processing parameters based on the acquired data characteristics. By analyzing the signal intensity and noise levels from multiple delay time acquisitions, the system dynamically optimizes reconstruction parameters and processing settings, ensuring high processing accuracy while eliminating the need for manual parameter tuning by the user
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 significantly reduces imaging time and simplifies the diagnostic process by allowing for faster acquisition and processing of non-contrast-enhanced MRA images, enhancing user operation and diagnostic efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic resonance imaging which excites nuclear spin of an object set in a static magnetic field with an RF having the Lamor frequency magnetically and reconstruct an image based on an NMR signal generated due to the excitation
Implementation Method 2
applies a gradient pulse (Gspoil) in a readout (RO) direction and adds a dephasing pulse or a rephasing pulse to a gradient magnetic field pulse
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus includes a first data acquisition unit, a second data acquisition unit and an image data generating unit. The first data acquisition unit acquires first data from a slice to be a target after a first delay time from a reference of a first heart rate in synchronized with an electrocardiogram. The second data acquisition unit acquires second data from the slice after a second delay time from a reference of a second heart rate which is different from the first heart rate. The image data generating unit generates image data with image reconstruction processing using the first data and the second data.