In Vivo Capsule Frame Rate Control for Power Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous in vivo imaging capsules face challenges in maintaining sufficient energy for image capture and transmission throughout the gastrointestinal tract due to limited power sources and varying movement speeds, which can result in incomplete imaging of body regions.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that dynamically control the frame capture rate of the in vivo imaging device based on estimated energy needs, adjusting the frame rate to ensure sufficient energy reserves are maintained for complete passage through a predetermined anatomical region, using a processor to monitor energy usage and adjust the frame rate to prevent power depletion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the frame capture rate is increased to capture images during rapid movement, then the imaging quality and coverage are improved, but the power consumption increases and may deplete the energy source
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the frame capture rate adjustable and adaptive rather than fixed. The system dynamically changes the frame rate based on real-time conditions (movement speed, remaining energy) to optimize both imaging quality and power consumption throughout the capsule's journey through the GI tract
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameter (frame capture rate) based on varying conditions. The system monitors energy levels and movement characteristics, then adjusts the frame rate parameter accordingly - using higher rates during rapid movement when energy is充足 and lower rates when energy is limited or movement is slow
2Reliability
If the frame capture rate is maintained at a fixed high rate, then complete imaging coverage is ensured, but the energy may be depleted before the device is expelled from the body
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring energy source status and using this information to adjust the frame capture rate. The system receives feedback about remaining energy and operational time, then modifies its imaging behavior to ensure both complete coverage and sufficient energy for the full duration of the procedure
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary assessment of energy reserves and predicted passage time before committing to a frame capture strategy. This allows the capsule to plan its energy expenditure in advance, adjusting the frame rate proactively to ensure it will have sufficient energy to complete the entire imaging mission
3Ease of operation
If the capsule size is reduced to meet swallowability requirements, then the device can be swallowed, but the energy source size is limited reducing available power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes operational parameters (frame capture rate, transmission rate) to match the limited power available from the small energy source. By adjusting these parameters dynamically, the system maximizes the utility of the constrained power supply while maintaining the compact, swallowable form factor
Data Source
AI summary
A method and device may control energy consumption of in an in vivo imaging device by determining or estimating an amount of energy needed to capture images at a frame rate until a complete passage of the device through a predetermined region of the gastrointestinal tract, and alter or limit the frame capture rate accordingly.