Ingestible Magnetic Capsule Tracking for Real-Time GI Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gastrointestinal (GI) transit and motility disorder monitoring technologies, such as the SmartPill and electrode array devices, lack real-time position tracking and require invasive surgical procedures, causing inconvenience and health risks.
Innovation Solution
A non-invasive system using a three-dimensional magnetic field generator and ingestible magnetic sensor to produce orthogonal magnetic field gradients, allowing real-time localization of the sensor within the GI tract with sub-mm spatial resolution, and a receiver to determine the sensor's spatial location based on magnetic field measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wireless motility capsules like SmartPill are used to monitor GI transit, then ease of use and convenience are improved, but real-time position tracking capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces magnetic field gradients as an intermediary mechanism to enable position tracking. External magnetic field generators create spatially varying magnetic fields that interact with magnetic sensors in the capsule, allowing position determination without direct line-of-sight or complex electronics in the capsule itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical/electronic position tracking systems within the capsule with a magnetic field-based sensing system. Instead of using complex motors, encoders, or communication systems in the capsule, the position is determined passively through magnetic field interactions with external generators.
2Measurement precision
If electrode array devices are used to monitor GI motility, then measurement capability is improved, but invasiveness and surgical requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses magnetic fields as an intermediary to achieve motility monitoring without direct electrical contact or surgical implantation. The magnetic sensors in the capsule interact with external magnetic field generators, providing measurement capability without the need for invasive electrode arrays or surgical procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes invasive electrical electrode arrays with non-invasive magnetic sensing. Instead of implanting electrodes that require surgical intervention, the system uses magnetic field interactions that can be performed externally, eliminating the harmful factor of surgical intervention while maintaining measurement capability.
3Duration of action of moving object
If SmartPill receiver is worn on waist for continuous monitoring, then continuous data collection is improved, but patient convenience and mobility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses magnetic field gradients as an intermediary communication channel between the capsule and external receivers. This allows data transmission without requiring continuous physical contact or proximity between the receiver and the capsule, enabling patients to move freely while maintaining continuous monitoring capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from direct physical coupling (wireless communication requiring proximity) to field-based interaction (magnetic fields penetrating tissue). This dimensional change from surface-level wireless communication to volumetric magnetic field interaction through the body enables continuous monitoring without constraining patient movement or requiring the receiver to be worn on the body.
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 real-time, non-invasive, and accurate tracking of the GI sensor's position, providing comprehensive spatiotemporal data for improved patient diagnosis without surgical intervention.
Implementation Method 1
a first localization magnetic field gradient along a first axis, at least a portion of the first localization magnetic field gradient having a monotonically-varying magnetic field magnitude along the first axis
Implementation Method 2
measuring a total magnetic field magnitude at the first, second, and third times; a three-dimensional magnetic sensor disposed in an ingestible capsule
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for in-vivo monitoring of a target internal volume of a mammal that includes: (a) placing the target internal volume proximal to a three-dimensional magnetic field generator; (b) generating first, second, and third magnetic field gradients along respective first, second, and third axes that are mutually orthogonal; (c) measuring first, second, and third magnetic fields with a three-dimensional magnetic sensor disposed in an ingestible capsule, the ingestible capsule disposed in the target internal volume; (d) with a controller in electrical communication with the three-dimensional magnetic sensor, generating a magnetic sensor output signal that encodes a measurement of the first, second, and third magnetic fields; (e) broadcasting the magnetic sensor output signal from an antenna disposed in the ingestible capsule, and (f) receiving the magnetic sensor output signal with a receiver. The received magnetic field data can be used to determine the three-dimensional position of the ingestible capsule.