Integrated Medical Tracking System with Embedded Computer Platform

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional medical technology tracking systems are complex and space-consuming due to the number of separate devices required, making them difficult to handle and set up.

Innovation Solution

Integration of a programmable computer platform within the tracking system, allowing for the consolidation of external navigation functions and elimination of additional data processing and storage units, along with a multi-purpose interface, mass storage, and remote control capabilities, resulting in a more ergonomic and simplified system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a conventional tracking system with separate devices is used, then the tracking function is provided, but the system becomes complex and space-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem complexityVSAvoidease of handling
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the tracking unit and computer platform into a single integrated device. The tracking unit with sensor arrays and the computer platform with processing capabilities are merged, eliminating the need for separate external computers and reducing system complexity while improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated device performs multiple functions including tracking, data processing, storage, and communication within a single unit. The computer platform handles not only tracking computations but also stores calibration data, processes images, and communicates with external devices, making the system more versatile and reducing the number of separate components needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Device complexity

If external data processing and storage units are used, then the tracking system functions, but additional cable connections and setup complexity are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of external connectionsVSAvoidease of setup
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the data processing and storage capabilities directly into the tracking unit. The computer platform is incorporated within the tracking device housing, eliminating external cables and connections for data processing and storage, thereby simplifying setup and reducing manufacturing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Volume of moving object

If the tracking system is miniaturized, then the system becomes more compact, but integration of additional functions becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem sizeVSAvoidintegration capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a nested structure where the computer platform is integrated within the tracking unit housing. The processor, memory, and other computational components are housed within the same physical enclosure as the sensor arrays, creating a compact yet functionally rich integrated device that maintains adaptability while reducing overall system volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentEP1915962B1Integrated medical trackingsystem
Publication Date: 2008.12.03 BRAINLAB AG
  • EP1915962B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP1915962B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The invention relates to a medical technology tracking system (1) with a tracking unit (2, 6, 7) comprising an image acquisition and image signal processing system (2, 6) in which a programmable computer platform (3) is integrated with the tracking unit in the tracking system (1).