Endoscope Distal-End Position Detection With Magnetic Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope systems lack the capability to determine the position of the distal end with high accuracy during insertion into a subject.
Innovation Solution
A processing device that acquires a distance from a reference position on the endoscope's movement path to its distal end and utilizes a magnetic pattern on the endoscope's tubular member to determine the reaching site based on captured images and magnetic flux densities, integrating with a detection unit to enhance positional accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the endoscope is inserted into the subject to reach the target site, then the examination coverage is improved, but the positional accuracy of the distal end becomes difficult to determine
Solution Approach 1:
A magnetic pattern is applied as an intermediary marker on the endoscope's tubular member. This magnetic pattern serves as a mediator between the endoscope position and the detection unit, enabling indirect but accurate position measurement through magnetic flux density detection without interfering with the endoscope's insertion and examination functions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical position detection methods with a magnetic field-based detection system. Instead of using mechanical encoders or physical markers that would add complexity to the endoscope structure, the invention uses magnetic flux density measurements to determine position, substituting a mechanical measurement system with a non-contact magnetic field sensing system
2Measurement precision
If a magnetic pattern is applied on the tubular member to enable position detection, then the positional accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic pattern creates a simplified copy or representation of the endoscope's position information in the magnetic field domain. Instead of complex mechanical position encoding systems, the invention uses a magnetic field pattern that replicates position data, which can be read by simple magnetic sensors without requiring complex processing or additional mechanical components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter used for position detection from mechanical dimensions or optical signals to magnetic flux density. By applying a magnetic pattern and detecting changes in magnetic flux density, the system transforms the position measurement problem into a magnetic field parameter measurement, which simplifies the detection mechanism while maintaining high positional accuracy
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 precise determination of the endoscope's position within the subject, improving the accuracy of lesion recognition and treatment tool recognition processes.
Implementation Method 1
a detection unit configured to detect magnetic flux densities
Data Source
AI summary
A processing device includes a processor configured to: acquire a distance from a reference position on a movement path of an endoscope to a distal end of the endoscope that is moved along the movement path; acquire a captured image that is captured by the endoscope; and determine a reaching site of the distal end of the endoscope inserted into a subject, based on the captured image and the distance.