Next-Generation Concurrent MRSI and fMRI

Publication ID: 24-11857306_0010_PTD

Published: November 07, 2025

Category:Future Evolutions & Paradigm Shifts

Legal Citation

pr1or.art Inc., “Next-Generation Concurrent MRSI and fMRI,” Published Technical Disclosure No. 24-11857306_0010_PTD, Published November 07, 2025, available at https://archive.pr1or.art/24-11857306_0010_PTD

This technical disclosure describes improvements that would be readily apparent to a Person Having Ordinary Skill In The Art (PHOSITA) when considered in combination with the foundational architecture disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,857,306.

Summary of the Inventive Concept

A revolutionary system for real-time, concurrent Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopic Imaging (MRSI) and functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) data acquisition, leveraging advanced AI and machine learning algorithms to provide high-resolution, multi-parametric maps of brain function and metabolism.

Background and Problem Solved

The original patent, 'Concurrent MRSI and fMRI,' addressed the limitations of traditional MRSI and fMRI scans, which are time-consuming and often preclude collecting data concurrently. However, the next-generation system envisions a more ambitious and forward-thinking approach, integrating AI-assisted adaptive water suppression, machine learning-based reconstruction, and real-time data analysis to overcome the limitations of the original patent.

Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept

The next-generation system comprises a hybrid MRI scanner capable of simultaneously capturing spatially-encoded water and metabolite signals. The machine learning-based processor instantaneously reconstructs and correlates the MRSI and fMRI data, generating high-resolution, multi-parametric maps of brain function and metabolism. The system also integrates advanced neural network algorithms to predict and diagnose neurological disorders, and can be used for real-time, intra-operative guidance during neurosurgical procedures.

Novelty and Inventive Step

The new claims introduce a paradigm shift in MRSI and fMRI technology, leveraging AI and machine learning to enable real-time, concurrent data acquisition and analysis. The inventive step lies in the integration of these advanced algorithms with the hybrid MRI scanner, providing a previously unknown level of precision, speed, and functionality.

Alternative Embodiments and Variations

Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include the use of wearable, MRI-compatible headsets for non-invasive, in-vivo monitoring of brain metabolism and function. Variations could also involve the development of cloud-based platforms for data storage and analysis, or the integration of the system with other medical imaging modalities.

Potential Commercial Applications and Market

The next-generation concurrent MRSI and fMRI system has significant commercial potential in the medical imaging and diagnostics industries, with potential applications in neurology, oncology, and psychiatry. The system could also be used in research settings to advance our understanding of brain function and metabolism.

Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)

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Field of Art

Medical Imaging and Neurological Diagnostic Technologies, specifically MRI spectroscopy and functional brain imaging techniques. Requires advanced knowledge of magnetic resonance physics, signal processing, and neuroimaging computational methods

Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile

A biomedical engineer or medical imaging specialist with advanced degrees in bioengineering, physics, or neuroscience, possessing expertise in MRI technologies, signal reconstruction algorithms, and neurological data analysis techniques

Obviousness Rationale

A PHOSITA would recognize that integrating machine learning and AI-assisted processing with existing concurrent MRSI and fMRI techniques represents a predictable technological evolution. The source patent's foundational concurrent imaging methodology provides a clear technical framework that naturally invites computational enhancement. The proposed variations leverage standard machine learning approaches to improve signal processing and diagnostic capabilities in a manner consistent with ongoing technological developments in medical imaging.

Obvious Combinations & Variations

Source Patent Element

Concurrent MRSI and fMRI data acquisition method using MRI scanner

PTD Variation

Adding machine learning-based processor for instantaneous data reconstruction and correlation

Obviousness Reasoning

Applying computational intelligence to medical imaging is a known technique for improving signal processing and diagnostic accuracy. Machine learning represents a predictable technological progression for enhancing existing imaging methodologies.

Source Patent Element

Water suppression module for MRSI imaging

PTD Variation

Implementing an AI-assisted, adaptive water suppression module that dynamically adjusts to signal intensities

Obviousness Reasoning

Adaptive signal processing techniques are standard design choices in medical imaging. A PHOSITA would recognize that machine learning could optimize existing water suppression techniques by introducing dynamic adjustment capabilities.

Source Patent Element

Brain functional and metabolic imaging system

PTD Variation

Integrating cloud-based platforms and neural network algorithms for neurological disorder prediction

Obviousness Reasoning

Extending medical imaging technologies to include predictive diagnostic capabilities is a foreseeable application of existing computational methods. Integrating cloud storage and advanced analytics represents an obvious technological progression.

Source Patent Element

MRI scanner for brain imaging

PTD Variation

Developing wearable, MRI-compatible headsets for non-invasive monitoring

Obviousness Reasoning

Miniaturization and portability are standard technological evolution paths. A PHOSITA would find the transition from stationary to wearable imaging systems an obvious design optimization driven by technological advances.

Source Patent Element

Functional brain imaging methodology

PTD Variation

Real-time, intra-operative guidance using concurrent MRSI and fMRI data

Obviousness Reasoning

Applying imaging technologies to surgical navigation is a known technique in medical imaging. The combination of existing concurrent imaging methods with surgical guidance represents a predictable technological extension.

35 U.S.C. § 103 Summary: Based on the teachings of US Patent 11857306 for concurrent MRSI and fMRI technologies, the present publication demonstrates that the proposed variations involving machine learning, adaptive signal processing, and advanced diagnostic methodologies would have been obvious to a person having ordinary skill in the art at the time of invention. The disclosed technical combinations represent predictable applications of known computational techniques to established medical imaging frameworks, thereby rendering subsequent claims of novelty non-patentable under 35 U.S.C. Section 103.

Original Patent Information

Patent Number	US 11,857,306
Title	Concurrent MRSI and fMRI
Assignee(s)	UNM RAINFOREST INNOVATIONS