ENT Navigable Shaver Ferromagnetic Tracking Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical probe tracking systems face accuracy issues due to magnetic field distortions caused by ferromagnetic components in the probe, especially when the distal end is rotating, which can degrade tracking precision.
Innovation Solution
The system employs both distal and proximal magnetic position sensors, with the proximal sensors providing accurate position and orientation information of the distal end. The processor corrects distorted measurements by comparing known geometric relative positions with estimated positions, initiating responsive actions if discrepancies are detected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If ferromagnetic components are used in the distal end of the medical probe, then the structural strength and functionality are improved, but the tracking accuracy deteriorates due to magnetic field distortions
Solution Approach 1:
A ferromagnetic compensation component is introduced as an intermediary element between the ferromagnetic distal end components and the magnetic field. This compensation component actively counteracts the magnetic field distortions caused by the ferromagnetic components, allowing the probe to maintain both its structural strength and tracking accuracy simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the magnetic field distortions caused by ferromagnetic components and adjusts the compensation component's magnetic field in real-time. This feedback mechanism ensures that the distortions are actively corrected, maintaining tracking accuracy even when ferromagnetic components are present for structural support
2Measurement precision
If magnetic position sensors are placed at the distal end for accurate tracking, then the tracking precision is improved, but the magnetic field distortions from ferromagnetic components worsen the measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The ferromagnetic components, which originally cause harmful magnetic field distortions, are compensated for by introducing a ferromagnetic compensation component. The system converts the harmful effect into a manageable parameter by actively compensating for the distortions, allowing the distal end sensors to maintain high tracking precision despite the presence of ferromagnetic materials
Solution Approach 2:
The ferromagnetic compensation component acts as an intermediary that mediates between the ferromagnetic distal end components and the magnetic field sensors. It absorbs and counteracts the magnetic field distortions, protecting the tracking system from the harmful effects of ferromagnetic materials while allowing the sensors to function accurately
3Adaptability or versatility
If the distal end rotates during the procedure, then the operational versatility is improved, but the tracking accuracy deteriorates due to compounded magnetic field distortions
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors magnetic field distortions during rotation and dynamically adjusts the compensation component's magnetic field in real-time. This feedback control ensures that even during rotational movements that compound the distortions, the tracking accuracy is maintained through active compensation
Solution Approach 2:
The ferromagnetic compensation component is designed to dynamically adjust its magnetic field characteristics in response to the probe's orientation and rotation. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain tracking accuracy throughout the full range of operational movements and rotations
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
This approach enhances the accuracy of tracking medical probes with ferromagnetic components, ensuring precise navigation during minimally invasive procedures without compromising tracking quality.
Implementation Method 1
the distal end includes a part that causes a change in a magnetic field crossing the distal end. In some embodiments, the part that causes the change in the magnetic field includes a ferromagnetic material.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a medical probe and a position-tracking system. The medical probe includes a distal end, and one or more distal magnetic position sensors. The medical probe further includes a proximal-end assembly, and one or more proximal magnetic position sensors. The position-tracking system includes a memory, which is configured to hold values indicative of known relative positions between the distal magnetic position sensors and the proximal magnetic position sensors. The position-tracking system includes a processor, which is configured to receive one or more signals indicative of estimated positions of the proximal magnetic position sensors and of the distal magnetic position sensors, as measured by the position-tracking system, and to initiate a responsive action in response to detecting a discrepancy between the known relative positions and the estimated positions.