Methods for the design, optimization, and image correction of local insert gradient system in magnetic resonance imaging

Developing faster Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) gradient systems is desirable for fast imaging pulse sequences. Because of their large size, reduced efficiency, and higher inductance, system body gradient coils are limited in performance. This limitation can be reduced by designing proper local gradient coils. In this dissertation, various types of local insert gradient coil designs, as well as their optimization and image correction techniques are investigated. Conventional method of designing planar gradient systems that uses twodimensional stream functions can be more computationally intensive than optimizing the one dimensional stream functions required for cylindrical gradients. In this dissertation, a novel planar gradient design method, which simplifies the twodimensional planar gradient coil design problem to a faster and easier one-dimensional problem by using a conformal mapping technique. The simulated gradient filed maps prove that the proposed gradient design technique creates same homogeneous gradient and works well throughout the imaging volume.