Motivation: Limited MRI access in remote areas is a major issue. Low-field MRI technology can help, but current models are often inadequate for many essential tasks. Goal(s): Develop a portable MRI scanner with an elliptical bore to improve imaging of extremities and heads, addressing the limitations of conventional cylindrical, low-weight designs. Approach: We designed a compact, modular system prioritizing simplicity and manufacturability. The elliptical magnet is optimized for ergonomic use, field characteristics, and full-length gradient support. Results: The portable system is now operational, demonstrating enhanced capabilities in extremity and neuroimaging, surpassing other low-weight scanners, such as Halbach-based designs. Impact: This work represents an important step towards imaging in unconventional, remote, rural and underserved settings including small clinics and field hospitals.
Pallás et al. (Tue,) studied this question.