Laplacian - Laplacian Gets to the Root of the Problem

Magnet resonance imaging specialist, Laplacian Ltd, has developed a luggable scanner for conducting resonance imaging of tree trunks subjected to drought and deluge conditions, as part of a tree physiology project at the University of Surrey. Developed with the assistance of Fusion's technical support package, the scanner can be used on tree trunks up to 200  mm diameter and provides complete imaging of the trunk.

According to Peter Aptaker, Managing Director of Laplacian, the balancing of the  customers  imaging requirement and portability posed many huge challenges.  The tree scanner is the first of its kind where carbon fibre composites are being used to hold the magnets in place, rather than heavier steel plates, in an effort to keep the scanner's weight to under 55 kg,

Briefly, the MRI scanner comprises two arms which “hug” the tree, each containing a unique array of magnet pieces and  gradient windings.  As a Culham Innovation Centre-based company, Laplacian has used the technical support package to tap into the skills of the CCFE's Special Techniques Group for  manufacture of the magnetic gradient windings and the final machining of the MRI unit.

“It is rare to find in one place the combination of engineering expertise and technical skills we have access to in CCFE's Special Techniques Group. Their ability to help with the milling and machining of gradients has been important in us successfully meeting the technical and physical requirements of the tree scanner,” said Peter Aptaker.

For more information please contact Peter Aptaker on 01865 408348 or email psa@laplacian.co.uk or visit http://www.laplacian.co.uk

Deeside Bridge photo courtesy of GIFFORD AND PARTNERS LTD in Southampton

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