Capsule Endoscope Magnetic Control via Rotating Dipole Field
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current capsule endoscopes lack precise control over movement and positioning within the gastrointestinal tract, relying on peristalsis for navigation, which is slow and inefficient, and existing external magnetic control methods are not practical for the snaky GI tract anatomy.
Innovation Solution
A device generating a 5-dimensional moving and rotating magnetic field using a magnetic ball with motors and slide rails to control the capsule endoscope's movement and orientation, allowing precise positioning and stable suspension within the GI tract.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If capsule endoscope relies on peristalsis for movement, then the capsule can move through the GI tract without external control, but the movement speed is slow and the positioning precision is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the biological peristalsis-based mechanical movement system with an external magnetic field control system. The magnetic capsule contains magnetic particles that respond to externally applied magnetic fields, allowing remote control of movement speed, direction, and positioning precision without relying on natural peristalsis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an external magnetic field as an intermediary between the operator and the capsule. The magnetic field acts as a mediator that transmits control signals to the magnetic capsule, enabling precise control of movement and positioning while the capsule remains inside the GI tract.
2Productivity
If external magnet is used for capsule positioning, then the positioning speed improves, but the complexity of the control system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the control mechanism from inside the capsule and places it outside in the form of an external magnetic field generator. This allows the capsule itself to remain simple while the control functionality is provided by the external device, reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The external magnetic field generator is designed to perform multiple functions: positioning the capsule, controlling its movement speed, directing its path, and even manipulating its orientation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate control mechanisms, simplifying the overall system.
3Measurement precision
If linear strip magnet is used for capsule control, then the capsule can be precisely placed in a direct route, but it cannot navigate the snaky GI tract anatomy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic magnetic field generation system that can change the field configuration in real-time based on the capsule's position and the required navigation path. This allows the system to adapt to the complex, non-linear geometry of the GI tract while maintaining precise control, unlike static linear magnets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional linear magnetic field control to three-dimensional magnetic field manipulation. The external generator can create magnetic field vectors in multiple directions and planes, enabling the capsule to navigate complex 3D anatomical structures like the snaky GI tract with 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
Enables accurate positioning and control of the capsule endoscope in three dimensions, improving detection efficiency and allowing for precise examination of the GI tract, overcoming the limitations of peristalsis-based movement and previous external magnetic control methods.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic field applies magnetic force to a magnetic capsule endoscope to move or suspend the capsule endoscope in a human GI track
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for controlling movement of a capsule endoscope in a human GI track is disclosed. The system comprises a magnetic dipole for placement in human GI track, an external magnet in a sphere shape generating dipole magnetic field and applying external translational and or rotational magnetic field force to the capsule endoscope, and a control system for moving the external magnet to manipulate the object along the variable axis in a desired direction of movement.