MRI Channel Selection Correction via Signal Storage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
It is challenging for operators to determine if the channel selected for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is suitable, leading to potential misalignment of the imaging target area and necessitating re-taking of positioning images and main scanning.
Innovation Solution
The MRI apparatus collects and stores magnetic resonance signal data from multiple element coils, allowing for automatic channel selection based on sensitivity maps and profile data, and provides a user interface for operators to change channel selection, correcting images in real-time to improve channel selection accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If automatic channel selection is performed based on center of magnetic field, then channel selection speed is improved, but channel selection accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system displays the positioning image after correction to provide visual feedback to the operator. This allows the operator to verify whether the selected channel is appropriate by observing the actual imaging position, and to make adjustments if necessary. The feedback loop resolves the contradiction by enabling verification and correction of automatically selected channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary correction of the positioning image based on the selected channel before actual imaging begins. By displaying the corrected positioning image in advance, the operator can evaluate the suitability of the channel selection and make adjustments if needed, preventing wasted imaging time later.
2Measurement precision
If operator manually evaluates channel suitability, then channel selection accuracy is improved, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically corrects the positioning image based on the selected channel and displays it for operator evaluation. This self-service approach provides the operator with pre-processed information that makes evaluation easier and more reliable, reducing the cognitive load and complexity of manual channel selection verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The corrected positioning image serves as an intermediary between the automatic channel selection system and the operator's judgment. Instead of requiring the operator to directly evaluate technical parameters, the system provides a visual representation that bridges the gap between automatic selection and manual verification.
3Measurement precision
If positioning image is retaken due to unsuitable channel, then channel selection accuracy is improved, but imaging time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary correction and display of the positioning image based on the selected channel before actual imaging begins. This allows the operator to identify and correct unsuitable channel selections in advance, preventing the need to retake positioning images or redo main scanning, thereby avoiding time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides a cushioning mechanism by displaying the corrected positioning image in advance, which allows the operator to detect and correct potential channel selection errors before they result in wasted imaging. This prior cushioning prevents the harmful effect of retaking images.
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 solution enables operators to make informed channel selection decisions, reducing the need for re-taking images, shortening imaging time, and improving the quality of MRI scans by providing visual feedback on image changes with channel selection adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
a reception coil that includes multiple element coils to receive magnetic resonance signals radiated from the subject
Implementation Method 2
receive magnetic resonance signals radiated from the subject
Implementation Method 3
an imaging target area is placed at the center of the magnetic field in which a magnetostatic field and a gradient magnetic field are superposed on each other
Data Source
AI summary
MRI signal data is received individually by multiple element coils. For each channel assigned to each element coil at a positioning image taking time, the collected magnetic resonance signal data is entered into a storage unit. An image is reconstructed from the magnetic resonance signal data stored in the storage unit, by referring the storage unit regarding the channel selected at the positioning image taking time. The reconstructed image is displayed. When a channel selection change command is received, an image is reconstructed using the magnetic resonance signal data stored in the storage unit, by referring to the storage unit regarding the changed channel. The after-change corrected image is displayed.