A 72-Channel Head Coil with an Integrated 16-Channel Field Camera for the Connectome 2.0 Scanner

Motivation: Diffusion MRI utilizing ultra-high performance gradients for high b-value in vivo brain images still suffers from low SNR and increased eddy currents artifacts. Goal(s): To construct a high-density coil array with an integrated field monitoring system. To enhance SNR and parallel image encoding, while capturing 3rd-order field dynamics. Approach: Utilizing simulations, 3D printing technology, and radiofrequency electronics to construct a 72-channel head coil and incorporate a field monitoring system. Optimization of the combined system to operate jointly in a space-constraint MRI gradient coil environment. Results: High-resolution, high b-value diffusion in vivo imaging with greatly minimized image artefacts. Impact: The constructed 72-channel head coil along with the new Connectome 2.0 scanner will enable the investigation of new microstructure features and connectivity in the living human brain.