Constrained optimization of gradient waveforms for generalized diffusion encoding

Diffusion MRI is a useful probe of tissue structure. The prototypical diffusion encoding sequence, the single pulsed field gradient, has recently been challenged with the introduction of more general gradient waveforms. Out of these, we focus on q-space trajecory imaging, which generalizes the scalar b-value to a tensor valued property. To take full advantage of its capabilities, it is imperative to respect the constraints imposed by the hardware, while at the same time maximizing the diffusion encoding strength. We formulate this as a constrained optimization problem that accomodates constraints on maximum gradient amplitude, slew rate, coil heating and positioning of radiofrequency pulses. The power of this approach is demonstrated by a comparison with previous work on optimization of isotropic diffusion sequences, showing possible gains in diffusion weighting or in heat dissipation, which in turn means increased signal or reduced scan-times.On the day of the defence date the status of this article was Manuscript.