In-Vivo Localization Synchronization via Sensing Windows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional localization systems for in-vivo devices in the gastrointestinal system interfere with advanced maneuvering systems, and there is a need for a method to synchronize the transmission and sensing of localization signals without disrupting the device's other tasks.
Innovation Solution
An electromagnetic field sensing window is allocated within the work cycle of the in-vivo device to sense and process localization signals, allowing the device to determine its location and orientation without interfering with other activities, using a timing mechanism to schedule the sensing of signals relative to an internal reference time and transmit localization data through a separate communication channel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an in-vivo device includes a magnet for producing a constant magnetic field for localization, then the location can be detected externally, but the device cannot be magnetically maneuvered and space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic field generator is designed to perform dual functions: generating localization signals for position detection and generating maneuvering fields for steering the in-vivo device. This eliminates the need for separate magnets and enables both localization and maneuvering capabilities within the same system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the localization system and maneuvering system into a single integrated system. The same magnetic field generator and external controllers are used for both generating localization signals and maneuvering fields, merging previously separate functions into one unified system.
2Measurement precision
If an external magnetic field generator continuously generates an alternating magnetic field for localization, then the in-vivo device can be located, but it interferes with other device functions and consumes continuous resources
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous generation, the magnetic field generator operates periodically by allocating specific sensing windows within work cycles. During these windows, localization signals are generated and sensed, and during idle periods, no localization signals are transmitted. This periodic operation reduces energy consumption and frees resources for other tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts its operation by dividing time into work cycles with alternating active and idle periods. The magnetic field generator is activated only when needed for localization sensing, and remains inactive during idle periods, making the system adaptive to varying operational requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an in-vivo device performs multiple tasks with internal timing, then comprehensive functionality is achieved, but synchronization with external localization signals becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The work cycle is segmented into distinct time periods: active periods for data transmission and idle periods for sensing localization signals. This segmentation allows each task to be performed during its designated time window without interfering with other tasks, simplifying the synchronization of multiple functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous operation by eliminating idle time through proper scheduling. Data transmission occurs during active periods, and localization sensing occurs during idle periods, ensuring that the in-vivo device is continuously performing useful tasks without unnecessary idle time or complex synchronization overhead.
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 enables precise localization of the in-vivo device while allowing it to perform other tasks without interference, ensuring accurate positioning and orientation determination without disrupting its internal operations or external maneuvering.
Implementation Method 1
the in-vivo device contains magnetic field sensing coils, and the external magnetic field generator generates an alternating magnetic field
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
An in-vivo device may allocate a sensing window in a work cycle for sensing and processing localization signals to determine the location/orientation of the in-vivo device. The in-vivo device may use a timing unit to schedule transmission of data frames and the sensing of the localization signals relative to a reference time embedded in work cycles. The timing unit may produce a clock signal based on which the in-vivo device may measure time specifics, which define the sensing window, relative to the reference time. A receiver may use data embedded in data frames to restore the clock signal and the reference time, and, from them, and using identical or similar time specifics, generate a synchronization signal for a localization signals source (LSS) to enable the LSS to generate localization signals in synchronization with the sensing windows.