FPGA-Based Architecture for a Generalized Parallel 2-D MRI Filtering Algorithm

Abstract

Problem statement: Current Neuroimaging developments, in biological research and diagnostics, demand an edge-defined and noise-free MRI scans. Thus, this study presents a generalized parallel 2-D MRI filtering algorithm with their FPGA-based implementation in a single unified architecture. The parallel 2-D MRI filtering algorithms are Edge, Sobel X, Sobel Y, Sobel X-Y, Blur, Smooth, Sharpen, Gaussian and Beta (HYB). Then, the nine MRI image filtering algorithm, has empirically improved to generate enhanced MRI scans filtering results without significantly affecting the developed performance indices of high throughput and low power consumption at maximum operating frequency. Approach: The parallel 2-d MRI filtering algorithms are developed and FPGA implemented using Xilinx System Generator tool within the ISE 12.3 development suite. Two unified architectures are behaviorally developed, depending on the abstraction level of implementation. For performance indices comparison, two Virtex-6 FPGA boards, namely, xc6vlX240Tl-1lff1759 and xc6vlX130Tl-1lff1156 are behaviorally targeted. Results: The improved parallel 2-D filtering algorithms enhanced the filtered MRI scans to be edge-defined and noise free grayscale imaging. The single architecture is efficiently prototyped to achieve: high filtering performance of (11230 frames/second) throughput for 64*64 MRI grayscale scan, minimum power consumption of 0.86 Watt with a junction temperature of 52°C and a maximum frequency of up to (230 MHz). Conclusion: The improved parallel MRI filtering algorithms which are developed as a single unified architecture provide visibility enhancement within the filtered MRI scan to aid the physician in detecting brain diseases, e.g., trauma or intracranial haemorrhage. The high filtering throughput is feasibly nominee the nine parallel MRI filtering algorithms for applications such as real-time MRI potential future applications. Future Work: a set of parallel 3-D fMRI filtering algorithms will be investigated to be developed and fast FPGA prototyped for future research project.