Unified Brain Function and Metabolism Imaging System
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A next-generation brain imaging system that integrates concurrent MRSI and fMRI with artificial intelligence and machine learning to provide high-resolution, unified images of brain function and metabolism, enabling real-time, personalized brain function mapping and adaptive neurofeedback.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent's concurrent MRSI and fMRI technology, while groundbreaking, has limitations in terms of image resolution, processing time, and individualized analysis. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by leveraging AI and machine learning to integrate and process data from multiple modalities, providing a unified, high-resolution image of brain function and metabolism.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The system comprises an MRI scanner, an AI module, and a machine learning module. The AI module integrates and processes data from MRSI and fMRI to generate a unified, high-resolution image of brain function and metabolism. The machine learning module identifies and adapts to individual brain function patterns, enabling real-time, personalized brain function mapping and adaptive neurofeedback. The system can also be used for non-invasive, high-resolution brain imaging, correcting for motion artifacts and improving image resolution.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce the use of AI and machine learning to integrate and process data from multiple modalities, providing a unified, high-resolution image of brain function and metabolism. This is a significant departure from the original patent's technology, which focused solely on concurrent MRSI and fMRI.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments could include the use of different AI algorithms, varying levels of machine learning complexity, or integration with other imaging modalities such as EEG or CT. Variations could also include adapting the system for use in different medical or research applications, such as neurology, psychology, or pharmacology.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The unified brain function and metabolism imaging system has significant commercial potential in the medical imaging and neuroscience markets, with applications in neurology, psychology, and pharmacology. The system's ability to provide high-resolution, unified images of brain function and metabolism could revolutionize the field of brain imaging, enabling new insights into brain function and behavior.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical Imaging and Neurological Diagnostic Technologies, specifically MRI spectroscopy and functional brain imaging techniques, requiring advanced knowledge of signal processing, medical imaging physics, and computational neuroscience
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A PhD-level biomedical engineer or medical imaging specialist with expertise in MRI technologies, signal processing algorithms, and advanced computational methods for neurological imaging
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that integrating AI and machine learning with concurrent MRSI and fMRI represents a predictable technological progression, leveraging known computational techniques to enhance existing imaging methodologies. The source patent's foundational work in concurrent imaging provides a clear technical framework that a skilled practitioner would naturally extend through advanced computational processing techniques. The PTD's variations represent incremental improvements using standard machine learning approaches to enhance multi-modal imaging data integration.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,306 |
|---|---|
| Title | Concurrent MRSI and fMRI |
| Assignee(s) | UNM RAINFOREST INNOVATIONS |