AC Electromagnetic Tracker With Multiple Transmitters for Distortion Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
AC electromagnetic trackers face limitations in operational range and are sensitive to electromagnetic distortion, particularly in environments with conducting surfaces, due to their design and lack of effective distortion compensation mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
The system employs multiple transmitters with non-coplanar coils to generate a magnetic field, a sensor to measure induction vectors, and a signal processor to calculate transfer functions and compensate for distortion by estimating differences in position and orientation, thereby extending the operational range and mitigating distortion effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the frequency, current, or effective area of the transmitter coil is increased to extend the operational range, then the tracking range is improved, but electromagnetic distortion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the tracking function across multiple transmitter coils (at least two coils) that can be independently controlled. By segmenting the transmission task, the system can use one coil for range extension while another serves as a reference for distortion compensation, resolving the contradiction between extended range and reduced distortion.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the magnetic field signals from multiple coils and using the measured distortion characteristics to adjust and compensate for electromagnetic distortion in real-time. The processor compares signals from different coils and applies correction algorithms to maintain accuracy despite increased operational range.
2Volume of moving object
If multiple transmitters are added to extend operational range, then tracking capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each transmitter coil serves multiple functions: it simultaneously contributes to extending the operational range, provides reference signals for distortion measurement, and enables distortion compensation. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve extended range with minimal additional complexity, as the same hardware components perform multiple roles.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the functions of range extension and distortion compensation into a unified measurement and processing framework. By combining the signals from multiple coils and processing them together through a single processor, the system achieves both goals without requiring separate dedicated hardware for each function, thereby limiting complexity growth.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for increased operational range and effective distortion compensation without adding complexity or additional hardware, enabling precise tracking in environments with electromagnetic interference.
Implementation Method 1
the basic concept of the AC electromagnetic tracker, which is to find the induction vector, Bk, generated by the source/transmitter coil
Implementation Method 2
their sensitivity to electromagnetic distortion caused by eddy currents induced by the magnetic field of the transmitter/source in conducting surfaces
Data Source
AI summary
An alternating current (AC) electromagnetic tracker system with increased operational range and an ability to compensate for electromagnetic distortion in the local operating environment. The system uses multiple “N” sources/transmitters located at known positions in a common reference frame. A sensor receives the generated signal of each of the sources and a processor computes a position and orientation of the sensor from each. The processor further uses the known relative position and orientation between the N sources to compensate for distortion in the operating environment.