Abstract:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is one of the most important imaging techniques widely used
in human anatomy imaging for soft tissue analysis, which cannot be achieved in other imaging
modalities like Computed Tomography (CT) and X-rays. This thesis focuses on studying the
operation of receive coils for low tesla or permanent magnet MRI systems, followed by the design
and implementation of a dual-channel flexible spine RF coil suitable for integration with Siemens
Magnetom C! MRI scanners. The MRI system consists of a magnet, gradient, RF, and image
reconstruction system which is used to excite and de-excite the hydrogen nuclei in the human body
and to receive the MR signal to make the scan of the desire body part. The scan is analyzed by the
radiologist to detect human tissue abnormalities.
Radiofrequency (RF) receiver coil is an important part of the RF receiver system to acquire
magnetic resonance (MR) signals. This thesis focuses on studying the operation of receive coils
for low tesla or permanent magnet MRI systems, followed by the design and implementation of
an independent dual channel spine coil suitable for integration with a commercial MRI scanner.
Contrary to conventional spine coil design, the proposed design does not include the base coil thus
simplifying the design, reducing cost and longer operational life.
The coil circuit design is carried out in Advance Design System (ADS) to achieve the resonance
frequency at 14.6 𝑀𝐻𝑧 whereas the 3D model is simulated in Computer Simulation Technology
(CST) software followed by PCB layout in Altium Designer. After successful fabrication, the
design is tested with the 0.35T Siemens Magnetom C! MRI system, which shows excellent results
in image quality. The required signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) value must be higher than 14 dB and
the obtained value is 26 dB, which is higher than the currently used Siemens RF coils and improves
image quality. The work aims to provide indigenous designs leading to cost-effective RF coils for
the domestic requirements of MRI systems.
