Endoscope Magnetic Position Detection for Target-Position Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscope systems lack precise control over the positioning and navigation of the endoscope within the body, leading to inefficiencies in medical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A processing device that acquires distance and target position information from a memory to control the endoscope's movement, utilizing a magnetic pattern on the endoscope's tubular member and magnetic detection units to determine the endoscope's position and provide notifications for precise navigation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If real-time positional detection and notification systems are added to endoscope systems, then navigation precision and procedural efficiency are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical positioning systems with magnetic field-based detection. Magnetic detection units sense the position of a magnet attached to the endoscope insertion part, enabling precise real-time positional detection without mechanical linkages or complex actuators. This substitution achieves high measurement precision while reducing mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the endoscope and the detection system. A magnet is attached to the endoscope insertion part, and magnetic detection units detect its position through the body wall. This intermediary enables non-contact, real-time positional detection with high precision without requiring direct mechanical or optical contact.
2Manufacturing precision
If magnetic detection units and patterns are integrated into the endoscope system, then navigation accuracy is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the positioning system into separate functional modules: a magnet attached to the endoscope insertion part and magnetic detection units positioned externally. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured and tested independently, then integrated into the complete system. The magnet can be attached to existing endoscopes without modifying the endoscope manufacturing process, while detection units are installed separately in the examination room.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses changes in magnetic field parameters (strength, direction, position) to encode spatial information. The magnetic detection units measure these parameter changes to determine the endoscope's position and orientation. This approach achieves high positioning accuracy by detecting subtle variations in magnetic field parameters without requiring complex mechanical positioning mechanisms.
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 control and navigation of the endoscope, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of medical procedures by providing real-time positional data and notifications.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic pattern is formed on the tubular member... a magnetic detection unit that detects a magnetic flux density
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, from a memory, target position information indicating a target position on the movement path; and perform control of giving a notification based on the distance and the target position information.