A Low-Cost, Handheld, and Real-Time 2D MR Imager

Motivation: To enable 2D phantom imaging using low-cost, handheld MRI for point-of-care and educational applications. Goal(s): Optimize a handheld spokes-and-hub magnet for 2D imaging, focusing on cost-effective design to create a comprehensive imaging system with affordability, accessibility, and versatility. Approach: This research extends prior studies focusing on a handheld spokes-and-hub magnet. Spin echo and turbo spin echo phantom imaging is enabled through optimization of magnet's design, RF pulses, and digitally-controlled H-bridge gradient coil drive. Results: 64x64 pixel MR images obtained in seconds from 10 mm diameter phantoms using a duration-phase-encoded TSE sequence on our redesigned handheld imager (spokes-and-hub magnet, dithered-pulse RF, switch-driven gradients). Impact: From magnet design and budget-friendly hardware constraints, we delve into 2D image acquisition in handheld spokes-and-hub MRI. Our tools aid iterative design, demonstrating viability for education and potential clinical use. Advancing low-field MRI, this work boosts MR accessibility and affordability.