Patent ID: 7932722

Claim:
A gradient coil comprising: a first gradient coil unit and a second gradient coil unit disposed so as to enclose a gradient axis therebetween, each said gradient coil unit including: a gradient coil substrate with a primary coil section, a shield coil section, a first return path section, and a second return path section, said primary coil section disposed between said gradient axis and said shield coil section, said primary coil section configured to produce a magnetic gradient field at said gradient axis when conducting an electrical current; said first return path section foldably connected between said primary coil section and said shield coil section with said second return path section foldably connected between said shield coil section and said primary coil section such that said gradient coil substrate forms a cylindrical surface having a longitudinal axis substantially aligned with said gradient axis; and a plurality of substantially parallel transverse conductive paths disposed across said cylindrical surface in a direction transverse to said gradient axis.