GROUP 1

ANSWERS
1) MRI – Magnetic Resonance Imaging

2) MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a medical imagining machine that uses magnetic
fields and radio waves to take detailed images of internal structures in a human body for
diagnosis of diseases and treatment.

3) a)Function of the magnet

The most crucial component of an MRI machine is the magnet which is used to obtain
precise photographs of the internal architecture of the [Link] protons in the body's tissues
are aligned by the powerful magnetic field it produces.
b)Function of the gradient coils
The primary function of gradients, therefore, is to allow spatial encoding of the MR signals.
The gradient coils are in charge of producing the gradient magnetic field that enables the
MRI scanner to generate three-dimensional image of the inside organs.
c) Function of the radio frequency coils
The radio waves that enter the body
are transmitted by the radiofrequency coils. The protons in the body's tissues vibrate as a
result of these radio waves, creating a signal that the MRI scanner can pick up.
d) Function of the patient table
During an MRI scan, the patient is lying on the patient table. It is intended to place the
patient in the ideal scanning position and to guarantee that the body part being scanned is in
the magnetic field's center. It can also be adjusted to produce images from various
perspectives.
e) Function of the bore
It is the cylindrical aperture in the middle of the MRI scanner where the patient lies during
the scan. The magnet, gradient coils, and radiofrequency coils are all positioned around it. To
reduce the sense of claustrophobia and to accommodate patients of various sizes, the bore is
made as wide as feasible.
f) Function of the operator console
It is utilized to monitor the patient's vital signs and to operate the MRI equipment. The
technologist can modify the scan parameters on the operator console in order to get the best
results for the images.
 g) Function of the computer
The computer is in charge of processing the signals obtained from the gradient and
radiofrequency coils and producing the finished images. The positioning of the patient table,
and the intensity of the magnetic field are all likewise managed by the computer.
h) Function of the patient coil
The patient coil is a specialized type of radiofrequency coil that is placed directly on or
around the area of the body being scanned. It is used to improve the quality of the MRI
image by providing a stronger and more focused magnetic field in the area of interest.
i) Function of the power supply
The power supply is a crucial part of the MRI machine and needs to be precisely regulated to
guarantee a steady and uniform magnetic field. It is also in charge of regulating the scan's
magnetic field's intensity.

j) Function of the shim system.

The magnetic field in the MRI scanner is adjusted using the shim system to make it as uniform
as feasible. The shim mechanism is essential for creating MRI images of the highest

4) Market review of five existing products

PRODUCT PROS CONS
Sigma Pioneer 1. High-quality imaging with 1. Expensive compared to
excellent detail and other MRI scanners.
resolution. 2. Large size and weight can
2. Advanced software options make installation and
for specialized imaging transportation difficult.
techniques. 3. Requires regular
3. User-friendly interface that maintenance and service to
is easy to learn and operate. keep it running smoothly.

Siemens Magnetom Aera 1. High performance gradient 1. Expensive compared to

system which can help reduce other MRI scanners.
scan times allowing for more 2. Software interface can be
efficient patient care. complex which may require
2. Wide bore design additional training for users
accommodates larger patients who are not familiar with it.
and reduces claustrophobia. 3. May be less accessible in
3. Advanced software options certain locations compared to
for specialized imaging other MRI scanners.
techniques.
Philips Ingenia Elition 1. High-quality imaging with 1. Expensive compared to
excellent detail and other MRI scanners.
resolution. 2. It has a relatively high
2. It has a wide 70cm ball and power consumption
a short tunnel which can help compared to other models on
Improve patient comfort and the market.
reduce feelings of 3. It has a large scanner
claustrophobia. which requires a lot of space
which may be a limitation for
3. Reduced scan times due to some clinical settings.
the use of dStream digital
broadband technology.

Toshiba vantage Galan 3T 1. Has a fast gradient system 1. It can be complex and may
and a streamlined work flow require additional training for
which can help improve scan users that are not familiar
times and improve patient with it.
throughput. 2. Requires regular
2. Advanced software options maintenance and service to
for specialized imaging keep it running smoothly.
techniques. 3. May be less accessible in
3. Quiet operation with certain locations compared to
reduced noise levels during other MRI scanners.
scans.

Hitachi Echelon oval 1. High-quality imaging with 1. Expensive compared to

excellent detail and other MRI scanners.
resolution. 2. Requires regular
2. Wide bore design maintenance and service to
accommodates larger patients keep it running smoothly.
and reduces claustrophobia. 3. May not have many
3. It is an affordable option to advanced imaging
other high-and MRI scanners capabilities as some other
which may make it more high-and MRI scanners on
feasible for smaller clinical the market.
practices or those with
limited budgets.
5) Specification table of The Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Metric Value Origin Demand/Wish Rank

Radius of Bore 70cm Customer Demand 10

Weight <4,000kg Competitor Wish 5
Dimensions 200cm×100cm×220cm
Lifespan >5 years Designer Demand 10
Installation Time <2 hours Designer Demand 8

Number of Parts <200 parts Competitor Demand 8

Sample Table >6 on the Likert scale Customer Wish 5
Comfort
Magnetic 2.5T Designer Demand 7
Strength
Cost Of <GH₵ 20,000 Designer Demand 8
Manufacturing
Sales Cost < GH₵ 30,000 Competitor Wish 5
Maintenance < GH₵ 1000 per month Designer Demand 6
Cost

6) Ways a biomedical engineer can improve upon the models

1. Enhanced Image Resolution: Improving the resolution of MRI images is crucial for better
visualization and accurate diagnosis. Engineers can explore advanced signal processing
techniques, such as advanced image reconstruction algorithms or parallel imaging methods,
to enhance spatial and temporal resolution. This would enable clinicians to detect smaller
abnormalities or lesions, leading to improved diagnosis and treatment planning.

2. Faster Scan Times: MRI scans can be time-consuming, limiting patient throughput and
causing discomfort to patients. One way to improve the model of an MRI machine is by
optimizing the scanning protocols and sequences to reduce scan time while maintaining
image quality. Additionally, engineers can work on developing novel imaging techniques,
like compressed sensing or accelerated imaging, which enable faster data acquisition, thus
reducing overall scan times.

3. Noise Reduction and Artifact Correction: MRI images are often affected by noise and
artifacts, which can compromise image quality and diagnostic accuracy. Engineers can focus
on developing sophisticated noise reduction algorithms and advanced post-processing
techniques to suppress noise while preserving important anatomical details. They can also
work on artifact correction methods to minimize distortions caused by patient motion,
magnetic field in homogeneities, or other sources, resulting in more accurate and reliable
imaging.