MRI Image Reconstruction Mode Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current medical imaging systems, particularly MRI apparatuses, face challenges in quickly reconstructing images without compromising Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) or resolution, necessitating a method that allows users to select image reconstruction methods to balance reconstruction speed and quality.

Innovation Solution

The MRI system provides a user interface for selecting between modes that prioritize either faster image reconstruction or higher resolution, utilizing techniques such as 2D multi-slice methods, compressive sensing, parallel image processing, and Super Resolution reconstruction to adaptively combine image data, allowing users to choose the desired effect.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If faster image reconstruction methods are used, then reconstruction time is reduced, but image resolution and Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereconstruction timeVSAvoidimage resolution
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts reconstruction parameters and methodology based on user-selected priorities. When speed is prioritized, the system applies accelerated reconstruction algorithms with reduced iterations; when quality is prioritized, it uses full-resolution reconstruction with higher iterations, allowing the reconstruction process to adapt its characteristics based on operational requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes key reconstruction parameters such as iteration count, regularization strength, and algorithm selection based on the desired outcome. By modifying these parameters, the system can shift between speed-optimized and quality-optimized reconstruction modes, resolving the contradiction between reconstruction time and image quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Loss of time

If faster image reconstruction methods are used, then reconstruction time is reduced, but Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereconstruction timeVSAvoidSignal to Noise Ratio (SNR)
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts reconstruction parameters and methodology based on user-selected priorities. When speed is prioritized, the system applies accelerated reconstruction algorithms with reduced iterations; when quality is prioritized, it uses full-resolution reconstruction with higher iterations, allowing the reconstruction process to adapt its characteristics based on operational requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes key reconstruction parameters such as iteration count, regularization strength, and algorithm selection based on the desired outcome. By modifying these parameters, the system can shift between speed-optimized and quality-optimized reconstruction modes, resolving the contradiction between reconstruction time and image quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If multiple reconstruction modes are provided for user selection, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of selecting reconstruction modeVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The MRI apparatus integrates multiple reconstruction modes and algorithms within a single unified system. The control unit can execute different reconstruction methodologies (accelerated, full-resolution, iterative, parallel imaging) using the same hardware infrastructure, making the system multi-functional without requiring separate dedicated systems for each mode.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit serves as an intermediary that manages the complexity of multiple reconstruction modes. It provides a unified interface for user selection and automatically selects appropriate reconstruction parameters and algorithms, shielding the user from the underlying system complexity while enabling access to multiple reconstruction capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP2843622B1Apparatus and method for reconstructing images by selecting image reconstruction mode
Publication Date: 2021.03.31 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP2843622B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2843622B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2843622B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Provided are a medical imaging apparatus and a method of reconstructing an image capable of selecting an image reconstruction mode. The method of reconstructing an image using a medical imaging apparatus may include displaying a user interface indicating at least one of a first mode for reducing time required for reconstruction of the image and a second mode for acquiring the image with high resolution, receiving an input selecting one of the first mode and the second mode as a selected mode, displaying at least one reconstruction option corresponding to the selected mode, receiving another input selecting at least one reconstruction option among the at least one displayed reconstruction option, and reconstructing the image according to the at least one selected reconstruction option and selected mode.