When scanning a patient to generate an image thereof, radio frequency (RF) coil modules are scalably coupled to each other using a plurality of clips to form flat or polygonal coil arrays that are placed on or around the patient or a portion thereof. A user assesses the volume to be imaged, identifies a coil array configuration of suitable size and shape and employs clips of one or more pre-determined angles to construct the identified coil array configuration, which is placed on or about the volume. Coil modules are coupled to a preamplifier interface box (PIB), which provides preamplified coil signal(s) to a patient imaging device, such as an MRI scanner. Small arrays are constructible to accommodate pediatric patients and/or smaller animals. Modules are hermetically sealed, can be sanitized between uses, and discarded at end-of-life. In one aspect, the modular coil array, clips, and PIB are maintained in an isolated contamination zone, separate from the patient imaging device.