Python-based Pulseq Client to the Remote Sequence Streaming Interface

Motivation: Tools for cross-platform open-source pulse sequence development have recently gained substantial traction within the MRI community. An important ingredient thereof is the set of scanner-specific "driver" or "interpreter" software modules, which currently have to be compiled and tested for every scanner model and software version. Goal(s): Develop an easy to maintain flexible Pulseq interpreter, with a minimal dependency on the scanner software. Approach: A Pulseq interpreter that relies on the prototype Siemens "Remote Sequence Streaming Interface" was implemented in Python. Results: Our proof-of-concept implementation shows identical simulated sequence diagrams compared to the previous Pulseq interpreter and is producing similar images on the scanner. Impact: Interpreter modules are instrumental for executing open pulse sequences on a particular scanner. The presented work paves a way towards reducing the effort associated with their development and maintenance by potentially reducing adaptations and tests for every scanner software version.