MRI RF Controller Multi-Slice FLAIR and MR Image Acquisition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques face challenges in rapidly obtaining multi-contrast images, particularly in multi-slice imaging where multiple slices need to be processed within a single repetition time (TR), leading to inefficiencies in image acquisition.
Innovation Solution
The MRI apparatus and method involve a radio frequency (RF) controller to manage RF pulses across two obtaining times within a TR, allowing for sequential receipt of signals to generate FLAIR and MR images for different slices, enabling the acquisition of multiple image types such as T1 weighted, T2 weighted, T2* weighted, and proton density images efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multi-slice imaging is performed to reduce image acquisition time, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need to manage multiple slices within a single TR period
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the image acquisition process into two distinct obtaining times within a single TR period. The first obtaining time is dedicated to acquiring signals for a first slice using an inversion RF pulse, while the second obtaining time acquires signals for a second slice. This segmentation allows multiple slices to be imaged within one TR without requiring complex simultaneous multi-slice management, thus improving productivity while controlling device complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple RF signals are sequentially received for different slices and image types, then manufacturing precision is improved through optimized signal acquisition, but loss of time increases due to the sequential nature of signal reception
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous useful action by utilizing both the first and second obtaining times within the single TR period for productive signal acquisition. The first obtaining time continuously acquires the first RF signal for the first slice, and the second obtaining time continuously acquires the second RF signal for the second slice. This continuous utilization of the TR period maximizes image quality while minimizing acquisition time, as no time within the TR is wasted.
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 enables the rapid and efficient generation of multi-contrast magnetic resonance images by optimizing the use of RF pulses and signal reception within a single TR, reducing image acquisition time and improving the quality of MRI data.
Implementation Method 1
The resonance of atomic nuclei refers to a phenomenon by which, when a particular radio frequency is incident on the atomic nuclei which are magnetized by an external magnetic field, the atomic nuclei in a low energy state are excited to a high energy state by absorbing radio frequency energy
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus includes: a radio frequency (RF) controller configured to control a period of an RF pulse to be applied to an object for a time period that includes a first obtaining time, during which a first inversion RF pulse is applied, and a second obtaining time; and a signal transceiver configured to sequentially receive, during the first obtaining time, a first RF signal for generating a first fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) image regarding a first slice of the object and a second RF signal for generating at least one magnetic resonance (MR) image regarding a second slice of the object.