Magnetic Field Interference Assessment for Positioning Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic field-based medical positioning systems face interference issues due to strong magnetic fields generated by their own systems, leading to signal distortions and inaccurate position and orientation determinations, particularly at connection areas where twisted-pair conductors cannot be applied.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a magnetic field generator, a first positioning sensor, and a second interference sensor, along with a processor that processes the interference signal to determine the magnitude of distortion and alert or compensate for it, ensuring accurate positioning data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a magnetic field-based positioning system generates strong magnetic fields for positioning, then positioning capability is improved, but signal interference and distortion increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary assessment mechanism that detects and evaluates magnetic field interference before it corrupts positioning signals. The system uses assessment circuits to measure interference levels and generates control signals that prevent distorted signals from being processed, thereby maintaining positioning accuracy despite the presence of strong magnetic fields.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring magnetic field interference levels and using this information to control signal processing. When interference exceeds threshold levels, the system generates control signals to block or reject affected positioning signals, creating a closed-loop system that maintains measurement precision despite harmful magnetic field effects.
2Reliability
If twisted-pair conductors are used to protect positioning signals, then signal distortion is reduced, but protection cannot be applied at connection areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical twisted-pair conductor protection method with an electronic/field-based assessment and control system. Instead of relying on physical conductor arrangement, the system uses magnetic field sensing circuits and electronic control signals to protect positioning signals at connection areas where mechanical twisted-pair implementation is not feasible.
Solution Approach 2:
The assessment circuit acts as an intermediary between the magnetic field environment and the positioning signal at connection areas. It detects interference levels and generates control signals that protect the signal without requiring physical modification of the conductors, enabling protection where twisted-pair implementation is impossible.
3Illumination intensity
If magnetic field strength is increased for better positioning, then positioning signal detection is improved, but interference with positioning signals increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback to monitor the relationship between magnetic field strength and signal quality. Assessment circuits detect both the magnetic field intensity and the resulting interference levels, generating control signals that maintain optimal field strength while preventing information loss by blocking signals that have been corrupted by excessive interference.
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
The system effectively assesses and minimizes signal interference, maintaining the accuracy of position and orientation determinations even in strong magnetic fields, particularly at connection areas where traditional methods fail.
Implementation Method 1
The MTA is configured to generate a magnetic field(s) in and around a certain area or region of a patient's body
Implementation Method 2
Each MPS sensor is configured such that when disposed within the magnetic field(s), it senses or detects one or more characteristics of the magnetic field(s), and generates a signal corresponding to the detected characteristic(s)
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a system and method for assessing interference to a signal caused by magnetic field. The system includes a magnetic field generator configured to generate a magnetic field. The system further includes a first magnetic field sensor configured to detect a magnetic field and to generate a first signal representative of the magnetic field detected thereby. The system still further includes a second magnetic field sensor. The second magnetic field sensor is configured to detect a magnetic field and to generate a second signal representative of the magnetic field detected by the second magnetic field sensor. The system yet still further includes a processor. The processor is configured to receive and process the second signal to determine whether said magnetic field detected by said second magnetic field sensor may cause distortion to said first signal, as well as the magnitude of such distortion.