MRI Scan Condition Determining Apparatus for Parameter Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) requires manual adjustment of parameters like the number of excitations and repetition time to achieve optimal signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and image quality, which is operator-dependent and challenging, especially for diffusion-weighted images, leading to inconsistent results.
Innovation Solution
A scan condition determining apparatus that automatically adjusts parameters such as the number of times of addition, y-axis direction resolution, and repetition time to match a desired scan time and SNR, using a method that estimates and iteratively adjusts these parameters to ensure optimal image quality without relying on operator experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual adjustment of parameters is performed to optimize scan time and SNR, then image quality can be improved, but the process becomes operator-dependent and inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines optimal scan parameters by performing internal calculations and adjustments without requiring operator intervention. The determining apparatus self-adjusts parameters like number of excitations and repetition time based on desired scan time and SNR requirements, eliminating operator dependency and ensuring consistent results across different users.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual operator adjustment (mechanical/systematic human intervention) with automated computational algorithms. The system uses computer-based calculations to determine parameter values, substituting the manual trial-and-adjustment process with an automated information-processing system that consistently applies the same optimization logic.
2Manufacturing precision
If the number of times of addition is increased to improve SNR, then signal quality improves, but scan time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts multiple parameters simultaneously (number of excitations, repetition time, matrix size) rather than changing just one parameter. By coordinating changes across multiple parameters, the system optimizes the relationship between SNR and scan time, finding the best compromise that satisfies both requirements rather than allowing one to dominate the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic parameter adjustment system that adaptively determines optimal values based on the desired scan time. Rather than using fixed parameter settings, the system calculates and adjusts parameters in real-time according to the specific scan time requirement, enabling flexible optimization for different clinical scenarios.
3Manufacturing precision
If parameter optimization relies on operator experience and intuition, then good image quality may be achieved, but the process becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The determining apparatus performs automatic parameter optimization without requiring operator expertise or manual adjustment. The system independently calculates optimal parameter values based on the desired scan time and SNR requirements, eliminating the need for operator experience and making the process accessible to users of all skill levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an automated determining apparatus as an intermediary between the operator's scan time requirement and the actual scan parameter settings. This intermediary system handles the complex optimization calculations and parameter adjustments, shielding the operator from technical complexity while ensuring optimal results.
4Manufacturing precision
If matrix size is changed to maintain SNR when adjusting number of times of addition, then multiple manual adjustments are required, but the process becomes complex and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the adjustment of multiple parameters (number of excitations, repetition time, matrix size) into a single integrated optimization process. Rather than requiring separate manual adjustments for each parameter, the determining apparatus simultaneously determines all parameter values that work together to achieve the desired scan time and SNR, reducing complexity and potential errors.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a scan condition determining apparatus for a magnetic resonance imaging system comprising accepting means for accepting specification of a desired scan time; and searching means for searching for a second scan condition based on a first scan condition defined before the specification, by adjusting values of parameters affecting a scan time or a signal-to-noise ratio of signals obtained by a scan, said second scan condition being one with which the scan time approximates within an allowable range or matches the desired scan time, and besides, a lowest value of a relative signal-to-noise ratio of the signals approximates within an allowable range or matches a lowest value of the relative signal-to-noise ratio of the signals estimated based on the first scan condition. The parameters include, for example, any one of a number of times of addition, a y-axis direction resolution, a repetition time, and a number of data acquisition passes.