Adaptive Magnetic Field Mapping via Runtime Model Re-estimation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing magnetic tracking systems face inaccuracies due to interferences from ferromagnetic objects and electromagnetic devices, which require complex calibration and correction methods, limiting their ability to accurately map magnetic fields in dynamic environments.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that involves a freestanding magnetic field detector and processor, allowing the detector to freely move within the volume of interest to acquire measurements, re-estimating parameters of the magnetic field model based on deviations between measured and predicted flux, thereby updating the magnetic field model for improved accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a magnetic field map is determined at the manufacturing stage or prior to tracking, then the system has a predefined magnetic field model, but it cannot account for interferences introduced by ferromagnetic objects or electromagnetic devices in the specific volume of interest

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of magnetic field modelVSAvoidadaptability to dynamic environments
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic field map is transformed from a static pre-defined model to a dynamic adaptive model that can be updated during operation. The system allows re-estimation of magnetic field parameters at runtime based on actual measurements taken in the specific volume of interest, enabling the model to adapt to changing environmental conditions and interference sources

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback by measuring actual magnetic field values during tracking operations and using these measurements to re-estimate and update the magnetic field model parameters. This closed-loop approach allows the system to correct deviations between predicted and actual field values, improving accuracy over time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If complex calibration and correction methods are used to account for interferences, then measurement accuracy improves, but device complexity and calibration time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision of magnetic field measurementsVSAvoidcomplexity of calibration procedures
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-calibration by automatically re-estimating magnetic field parameters using measurements taken during normal operation. Instead of requiring external calibration equipment or complex manual procedures, the system uses its own tracking data and a mathematical model to update its magnetic field map, making the calibration process autonomous and integrated into regular operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the parameters of the magnetic field model through iterative re-estimation. By adjusting model parameters based on actual measurements and minimizing the difference between predicted and observed field values, the system achieves accurate calibration without complex procedures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If traditional magnetic field mapping methods are used, then the initial model is established, but the system cannot adapt to dynamic changes in the magnetic environment during operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverobustness of magnetic field modelVSAvoidtime for model updates
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic field model updating process is made continuous rather than periodic or batch-based. The system continuously re-estimates parameters using ongoing measurements during tracking operations, ensuring the model remains current without requiring separate calibration sessions or interrupting normal operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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 enables a more accurate and adaptive mapping of magnetic fields, accounting for interferences and dynamic changes, enhancing the precision of tracking systems by iteratively refining the magnetic field model until a desired degree of accuracy is achieved.

Implementation Method 1

a magnetic field transmitter (102) generates a magnetic field (110) in a volume of interest (118)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a magnetic field detector (104) operative to freely move within the volume of interest (118). The magnetic field detector (104) acquires measurements of the flux of the magnetic field (110)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic flux detection: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS8700376B2System and a method for mapping a magnetic field
Publication Date: 2014.04.15 ELBIT SYSTEMS LTD
  • US8700376B2 patent drawing
  • US8700376B2 patent drawing
  • US8700376B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for mapping a magnetic field in a volume of interest, the system includes a magnetic field transmitter, generating a magnetic field in the volume of interest, at least one freestanding magnetic field detector, operative to freely move within the volume of interest, the at least one freestanding magnetic field detector acquiring measurements of the flux of the magnetic field at a plurality of poses, and a processor, coupled with the magnetic field detector, the processor re estimating parameters characterizing the magnetic field model according to deviations between the measurements of the flux of the magnetic field and according to predictions of the flux, the predictions being determined according to a stored magnetic field model, thereby, the processor estimating a new magnetic field model.