MRI Pre-Scan Pulse Sequence for Simultaneous Data Acquisition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems require manual switching between separate pulse sequences for acquiring center frequency data and object projection data, leading to system software and MR physics-related delays.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that acquire MR data during a pre-scan acquisition sequence using a readout gradient pulse and a post-readout gradient rewinder pulse, allowing simultaneous acquisition and display of object projection and center frequency data from the same spatial slice, eliminating the need for separate sequences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate pulse sequences are used for acquiring center frequency data and object projection data, then data acquisition can be performed manually, but system software delays and MR physics steady state delays occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines center frequency data acquisition and object projection data acquisition into a single integrated pulse sequence. The readout gradient pulse acquires object projection data, while the post-readout gradient rewinder pulse acquires center frequency data from the same spatial slice, eliminating the need for separate sequences and manual switching operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous data acquisition by removing gaps between separate sequences. The integrated sequence allows back-to-back acquisition of object projection data and center frequency data without system software delays or steady state delays, maintaining continuous useful action throughout the pre-scan process.
2Device complexity
If manual switching between separate sequences is required, then system complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases due to delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple data acquisition functions into a single pulse sequence structure. By integrating center frequency and object projection data acquisition into one continuous sequence with gradient rewinder pulses, the system achieves faster productivity without significantly increasing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated pulse sequence performs multiple functions simultaneously - acquiring both object projection data and center frequency data from the same spatial slice. This multi-functional approach increases productivity by eliminating the need for separate specialized sequences while maintaining manageable system complexity.
3Measurement precision
If separate acquisition modes are used for object projection data and center frequency data, then data specificity is improved, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines specific data acquisition modes for object projection and center frequency into a single integrated sequence. Each data type maintains its specificity through dedicated gradient pulses (readout gradient for object projection, post-readout gradient rewinder for center frequency), while the overall acquisition time is reduced by eliminating sequence transitions.
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 system software and MR physics-related delays by enabling simultaneous visualization and optimization of MR data acquisition, allowing for real-time adjustment of imaging parameters without the need for manual switching between sequences.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic field gradients (Gx, Gy, and Gz) are employed
Implementation Method 2
the individual magnetic moments of the spins in the tissue attempt to align with this polarizing field and precess about it in random order at their characteristic Larmor frequency
Implementation Method 3
If the substance, or tissue, is subjected to a magnetic field (excitation field B1) which is in the x-y plane and which is near the Larmor frequency, the net aligned moment, or 'longitudinal magnetization', Mz, may be rotated, or 'tipped ', into the x-y plane to produce a net transverse magnetic moment Mt
Implementation Method 4
a post readout gradient rewinder pulse of the pulse sequence after application of the pre-scan readout gradient pulse
Data Source
AI summary
A method of pre-scan data acquisition includes the application of a pre-scan pulse sequence to acquire MR signals from a region-of-interest to be imaged with an imaging pulse sequence. The pre-scan pulse sequence applies a pre-scan readout gradient pulse and a pre-scan readout gradient rewinder pulse. MR signals are acquired from a region of interest during application of the pre-scan readout gradient pulse and after application of the pre-scan readout gradient rewinder pulse.