Electromagnetic Navigation Frequency Sweeping for Metal Distortion Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Navigation systems using electromagnetic fields are hindered by distortions caused by metal objects during surgical procedures, which affect the accuracy and effectiveness of tracking devices.
Innovation Solution
A system that navigates at ultra low to high frequencies (300 Hz to 30 MHz) to identify and minimize electromagnetic distortions by sweeping across frequencies to find optimal frequencies that reduce distortions, using multiple transmission coils and models to compensate for distortions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electromagnetic fields are used for navigation tracking, then navigation functionality is provided, but distortions occur due to metal objects in the surgical environment
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the frequency parameter of the electromagnetic field to identify and operate at optimal frequencies where distortion is minimized. By sweeping across a range of frequencies (e.g., 300 Hz to 30 MHz) and selecting frequencies with lower distortion magnitudes, the system maintains reliable tracking despite the presence of metal objects in the surgical environment.
2Measurement precision
If signal frequency is increased to improve tracking precision, then measurement precision improves, but distortion magnitude increases due to metal objects
Solution Approach 1:
The system measures the distortion magnitude at different frequencies and uses this feedback to identify optimal frequencies where tracking precision can be maintained or improved while distortion remains acceptable. The distortion measurements guide the selection of operating frequencies, ensuring precise tracking without excessive distortion.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a fixed high frequency that may cause excessive distortion, the system dynamically adjusts the frequency parameter based on measured distortion levels. By selecting from multiple frequency options within the operating range, the system optimizes the balance between tracking precision and distortion magnitude for each specific surgical environment.
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 reliable segmental tracking in surgical procedures with multiple metal tools and implants by minimizing electromagnetic distortions, ensuring accurate navigation and tracking.
Implementation Method 1
transmit a signal according to a set of frequencies, wherein a frequency range associated with the set of frequencies is from about 300 Hz to about 30 MHz
Implementation Method 2
determine a distortion in association with an electromagnetic field sensed at a tracking device
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method include transmitting a signal according to a set of frequencies. A frequency range associated with the set of frequencies is from about 300 Hz to about 30 MHz. The system and method include sensing an electromagnetic field based on transmitting the signal according to the set of frequencies and determining a distortion in association with sensing the electromagnetic field. The system and method include identifying frequencies at which the magnitude of the distortion is less than the threshold value. The system and method include transmitting the signal according to one or more of the identified frequencies and providing navigation information associated with an environment in response to transmitting the signal.