Flexible Net Electromagnet Array for Magnetic Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical systems for magnetic navigation face limitations in imaging methods like CT and MR due to structural constraints, access issues, and the need for large, heavy magnets, which restrict precise navigation and patient access, especially in sterile environments and with steep angulations.
Innovation Solution
A medical system utilizing a flexible net-type structure of small electromagnets that can be activated individually to generate a variable magnetic field, allowing precise navigation and easy access to the patient, with the option of non-metallic electromagnets for MR compatibility and customizable sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If large permanent magnets or electromagnets are used for magnetic navigation, then the magnetic field strength is sufficient to navigate objects in the body, but the device size becomes very large and heavy, requiring floor reinforcement and limiting installation locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the magnet apparatus into multiple individual magnets arranged in a grid pattern. Each magnet can be independently controlled, allowing the system to generate the required magnetic field strength through coordinated action of multiple smaller magnets rather than relying on a single large magnet. This segmentation reduces the weight and size requirements for each individual component while maintaining overall system effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from using a single large magnet to a two-dimensional array of multiple smaller magnets. This dimensional change allows the magnetic field to be generated distributed across a surface area, reducing the concentration of weight and mass at any single point. The grid arrangement enables the system to achieve sufficient magnetic field strength through spatial distribution rather than through increasing individual magnet size.
2Force
If permanent magnets are mechanically moved to change the magnetic field vector, then the magnetic field direction can be changed, but the response time is very slow compared to electromagnets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical movement system with an electrical control system. Instead of physically moving permanent magnets to change the magnetic field vector, the system uses electromagnets that can be activated or deactivated electronically. This substitution of mechanical actuation with electrical control enables rapid changes in magnetic field direction and intensity, achieving fast response times while maintaining precise vector control capability.
3Ease of operation
If large magnets are positioned at a distance from the isocenter to allow doctor access, then patient access is improved, but the magnetic field strength decreases proportionally with the square of the distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses multiple small magnets arranged in a grid that can be positioned closer to the isocenter while still allowing doctor access. The segmented arrangement enables the magnetic field to be generated at a more favorable distance from the isocenter, maintaining field strength through the collective contribution of multiple magnets rather than requiring a single distant large magnet.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnet apparatus is designed with a flexible support structure that can be draped over the patient. This flexible configuration allows the magnets to be positioned in close proximity to the region of interest while maintaining the ability for doctors to access the patient. The thin, flexible form factor enables optimal positioning without the spatial constraints of rigid large-magnet systems.
4Speed
If electromagnets are used instead of permanent magnets, then the magnetic field vector can be changed quickly and silently, but steep angulations greater than 35 degrees cannot be set at the imaging system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic magnet apparatus where individual electromagnets can be independently activated and controlled. This dynamic configuration allows the magnetic field to be steered and directed at various angles by selectively activating magnets in different positions within the grid. The system can adapt to steep angulations by dynamically reconfiguring which magnets are active and at what intensity, enabling imaging system angulation beyond the 35-degree limitation of fixed magnet systems.
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 rapid, precise, and reliable navigation of objects within the body while improving access to the patient, reducing the need for large magnets and allowing use in various imaging systems, including MR and CT, with reduced risk of magnetic interference and enhanced surgical access.
Implementation Method 1
the magnet apparatus has a plurality of electromagnets, which electromagnets are disposed in a flexibly embodied net-type structure
Implementation Method 2
magnet apparatus for generating a variable magnetic field in the area of the object
Implementation Method 3
The magnetic fields of the magnet apparatus are activated and thereby the magnetic field vector changed by means of a control apparatus so that the object can be automatically navigated to any given positions
Data Source
AI summary
For an improved use even with medical imaging a comprehensive medical system for magnetic navigation of an object with a magnetic element within a human body is provided, having a magnet apparatus for generating a variable magnetic field in the region of the object, wherein the magnet apparatus has a plurality of electromagnets, which electromagnets are disposed in a flexibly-embodied net type structure, which net-type structure is especially able to be disposed directly on the body such that it surrounds the object on four sides.