Magnetic Resonance Signal Acquisition Apparatus Non-Overlapping Triaxial Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) signal acquisition times are lengthy, and existing methods like multi-slice localized excitation (MUSCLE) limit slice position freedom and result in signal loss due to magnetization saturation from overlapping excitation areas.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic resonance signal acquisition apparatus sets non-overlapping first and second acquisition areas through triaxial localization, allowing selective excitation of each area to reduce signal loss and shorten acquisition time by avoiding magnetization saturation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If multi-slice localized excitation (MUSCLE) is used to shorten signal acquisition time, then acquisition time is reduced, but slice position freedom is limited and signal loss occurs due to magnetization saturation from overlapping excitation areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the signal acquisition process into multiple non-overlapping segments (acquisition areas), where each area is excited and acquired separately within one TR period. This segmentation prevents magnetization saturation from overlapping excitations while maintaining shortened acquisition time through efficient multi-area coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the acquisition approach from traditional single-slice or limited multi-slice methods to three-dimensional non-overlapping acquisition areas. By utilizing spatial arrangement in multiple dimensions, the method achieves comprehensive coverage without overlap, resolving the contradiction between speed and signal quality.
2Reliability
If traditional MRS with triaxial localization is used, then signal quality is maintained, but acquisition time becomes lengthy (3-5 minutes)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous useful action by acquiring signals from multiple non-overlapping areas within a single TR period without interruption. This eliminates the need to wait for magnetization recovery between sequential acquisitions, maintaining signal quality while dramatically reducing total acquisition time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary spatial arrangement and planning of non-overlapping acquisition areas before signal acquisition begins. This preliminary configuration enables efficient execution of multi-area acquisition within one TR, preventing time loss from repositioning or recalibration during the actual signal collection process.
3Area of stationary object
If overlapping excitation areas are used to increase coverage, then more areas can be acquired, but magnetization saturation causes signal loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by ensuring each acquisition area has distinct, non-overlapping excitation characteristics. Each localized area maintains its own magnetization cycle independent of others, preventing saturation-induced signal loss while collectively achieving comprehensive coverage through the arrangement of multiple such areas.
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 improves signal quality and reduces acquisition time by allowing signal acquisition during magnetization recovery periods, enhancing the freedom in setting acquisition area positions without signal loss from overlapping excitation areas.
Implementation Method 1
Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) acquires magnetic resonance signals by performing triaxial localization on a signal acquisition area
Implementation Method 2
acquires first magnetic resonance signals by selectively exciting the first excitation area and acquires second magnetic resonance signals by selectively exciting the second excitation area
Data Source
AI summary
A processing circuitry sets a first acquisition area and a second acquisition area, which are a target for signal acquisition through triaxial localization, in such a manner that the first acquisition area does not three-dimensionally overlap with the second excitation area for the second acquisition area, and the second acquisition area does not three-dimensionally overlap with the first excitation area. A pulse sequence generator acquires a first magnetic resonance signal by selectively exciting the first excitation area, and acquires a second magnetic resonance signal by selectively exciting the second excitation area.