Biomagnetic Detection with Optically Pumped Magnetometers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies lack effective methods for sensing dynamic magnetic fields associated with mammalian tissues, which are essential for diagnosing and monitoring various physiological and pathological conditions.
Innovation Solution
The development of systems and devices equipped with optically pumped magnetometers (OPMs) and electromagnetic shields, allowing for the precise sensing and filtering of magnetic field data from tissues such as blood, bone, and organs across the body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optically pumped magnetometers are used to sense magnetic fields, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces optically pumped magnetometers as intermediary sensing devices that detect magnetic fields generated by biological tissues. These magnetometers serve as mediators between the biological sample and the measurement system, enabling precise non-invasive detection of magnetic signals without direct contact or invasive procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or electrical sensing methods with optically pumped magnetometer technology. This substitution uses optical pumping mechanisms and quantum effects in alkali metal vapors to detect magnetic fields, eliminating the need for complex mechanical scanning systems or invasive electrical contacts while achieving superior measurement precision
2Measurement precision
If electromagnetic shields are added to filter environmental magnetic fields, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses the harmful effect of environmental magnetic fields by introducing electromagnetic shields that convert the problem of external interference into a manageable structural component. The shields are designed to selectively block environmental magnetic noise while allowing the detection of weaker biological magnetic signals, transforming a source of error into a controlled feature of the measurement system
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic shields are strategically positioned around specific sensing regions rather than enveloping the entire system. This localized shielding approach provides targeted protection against environmental magnetic interference in the critical measurement zones while minimizing the overall complexity and cost of the shielding structure
3Measurement precision
If multiple magnetometers are arranged in arrays to conform to body portions, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs magnetometer arrays with adjustable and reconfigurable geometries that can dynamically adapt to different body portions and measurement requirements. The arrays can be repositioned, reconfigured, or resized to match the contours of various anatomical regions, enabling precise magnetic field mapping without requiring completely different devices for each application
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetometer arrays are designed with multi-functional capabilities that allow them to conform to different body portions (head, chest, limbs) and perform various measurement tasks. This universal design enables a single array system to replace multiple specialized devices, improving ease of operation across different clinical applications while maintaining high measurement precision
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
These systems enable non-invasive, passive bioelectric measurements, providing detailed magnetic field data that can aid in diagnosing cardiac conditions, monitoring disease progression, and predicting health outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
an array of one or more optically pumped magnetometer(s) coupled to the distal end of the arm, the optically pumped magnetometer array configured to sense the magnetic field associated with the individual
Implementation Method 2
a shield configured to attenuate a magnetic field or fields associated with an environment
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and systems as described herein is configured to sense a signal, such as a signal from an individual. In some embodiments, a signal is a magnetic field. In some embodiments, a source of a signal is an individuals organ, such as a heart muscle. A device or system, in some embodiments, comprises one or more sensors, such as an array of sensors configured to sense the signal. A device or system, in some embodiments, comprises a shield or portion thereof to reduce noise and enhance signal collection.