Rotating magnets as spatial encodings for portable MRI applications

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has long been a preferred imaging technique due to its non-invasive nature and its ability to produce high-quality, multi-contrast images. While advancements in the field have typically focused on achieving higher field strengths for better image quality, traditional MRI devices require significant financial investment and high energy consumption for setup, operation, and maintenance. In contrast, low-field MRI devices offer a more cost-effective and energy-efficient alternative, but at the expense of image signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), which is crucial for clinical scans. This trade-off has historically hindered the development of low-field MRI. However, recent advancements in machine learning for image reconstruction and denoising have shown promising results in enhancing low-field MRI images, reigniting interest in this area. This paper discusses the viability of a low-field, open-bore MRI device. To reduce the form factor, we implemented a novel magnetic field design based on permanent magnets and a set of custom radio-frequency coils for low operational frequencies. Furthermore, various accompanying signal acquisition, image reconstruction and image denoising techniques are discussed. We provide theoretical support and simulated results to demonstrate the potential of this design, and a prototype is assembled for preliminary testing. At the prototype's miniature scale, MRI can become a candidate for many urgent-care or on-scene imaging tasks, removing barriers to the technology.

Name thesis:degree_name

M.S.

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Electrical & Computer Engr

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2024

Author dc:creator

• Shi, Yaokun

Contributors dc:contributor

• Haran, Kiruba S.

• Low-field Mri

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 2024 Yaokun Shi

Language dc:language

en, eng

Handle dc:identifier

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/125739

OAI record oai:identifier

https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/oai-pmh?verb=GetRecord&metadataPrefix=etdms&identifier=oai%3Awww.ideals.illinois.edu%3A2142%2F125739