In-Vivo Device Position Detection via External Light Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current swallowable in-vivo devices for gastrointestinal tract imaging lack effective methods to accurately determine their position within the body, which is crucial for precise diagnostics and data collection.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing an in-vivo device with a light sensor and an ex-vivo module that emits an indication light, allowing the in-vivo device to detect its position and synchronize imaging with external light sources to prevent overexposure, while also enabling communication and potential slowing or stopping of the device at specific locations using a progress regulating component.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If the in-vivo device uses an on-board illumination source for imaging, then image acquisition is enabled, but external light sources may cause overexposure and image interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of external light (which causes overexposure) into a useful function by using the same external light source as a positioning signal. The light sensor detects the presence and intensity of external illumination to determine the device's location, while the synchronization mechanism ensures imaging only occurs when external light is absent, thus eliminating overexposure while utilizing the external light source for dual purposes: positioning and triggering imaging sequences.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action through synchronization between the imaging system and external light sources. The imager is configured to capture images only during specific time windows when external illumination is not active, creating a periodic imaging pattern that avoids overexposure. This timing-based coordination allows the system to operate in cycles of external light presence and absence, ensuring image quality while maintaining continuous monitoring capability.
2Productivity
If the in-vivo device travels through the gastrointestinal tract, then continuous data collection is possible, but the device moves too quickly to stop at specific diagnostic locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the light sensor continuously monitors external light signals that indicate proximity to specific anatomical locations. When the sensor detects the characteristic light pattern of a target location, it triggers a feedback response that activates the progress regulating component. This feedback loop enables the device to automatically respond to positional information and adjust its transit accordingly, pausing at diagnostically important sites while maintaining continuous monitoring and data collection capabilities throughout the journey.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of external light sources and a light sensor that mediates between the device's motion and the need to stop at specific locations. The external light sources serve as positional markers, and the sensor translates these optical signals into control commands for the progress regulating component. This intermediary optical communication system enables precise location-based control without requiring direct mechanical intervention, allowing the device to pause at critical sites while maintaining overall continuous operation.
3Measurement precision
If the in-vivo device includes position detection capability, then diagnostic accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by designing the light sensor to serve dual purposes: it acts as both an ambient light sensor for position detection and triggers the imaging sequence. The same sensor that detects external light for positioning purposes also serves as the trigger mechanism for the imager, eliminating the need for separate positioning and imaging trigger systems. This universal approach maintains high measurement precision while minimizing device complexity by consolidating functions.
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 positioning and imaging of in-vivo devices within the gastrointestinal tract, improving diagnostic accuracy and allowing for continuous data collection without image interference from external light sources, and facilitating the slowing or stopping of the device at critical locations.
Implementation Method 1
having at least one sensor configured for sensing light
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for detecting the position of an in-vivo device based on external light: the system may include an in-vivo device configured for being introduced into a body and having at least one sensor configured for sensing light; and an ex-vivo module including at least one illumination source configured for emitting an indication light towards said body; the indication light is configured for being sensed by the at least one sensor.