Magnetic Miniature Device for Precise In-Vivo Navigation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing medical devices navigating within the human body lack precise control and accurate delivery mechanisms for therapeutic payloads and tools, especially in navigating and releasing payloads at specific anatomical locations.

Innovation Solution

A miniature device configured to be maneuvered by external magnetic fields, utilizing a rotating magnetic field for propulsion and a magnetic field gradient to perform predefined functions such as payload release, equipped with a magnetic arrangement and actuation mechanisms like pinion gears and ejection magnets to facilitate precise navigation and function execution within the body.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If self-propulsion or external propulsion mechanism is used for device movement, then the device can navigate within the body, but accurate location and tracking becomes difficult to ensure

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice movement capabilityVSAvoidlocation and tracking accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical propulsion systems with magnetic field-based actuation. The miniature device contains a magnetic arrangement that responds to external magnetic fields, allowing for precise control and tracking through magnetic field manipulation rather than mechanical movement mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Quantity of substance

If conventional delivery mechanisms are used, then the device can transport payloads, but precise delivery at specific anatomical locations cannot be achieved

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepayload transport capabilityVSAvoiddelivery location accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces conventional mechanical delivery mechanisms with magnetic field-based actuation. The magnetic arrangement within the miniature device responds to external magnetic fields, enabling precise control over payload delivery location through magnetic field manipulation rather than mechanical transport mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If magnetic arrangement is used for propulsion, then the device can be maneuvered by external magnetic fields, but the mechanism for performing predefined functions becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveremote maneuverabilityVSAvoidactuation mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal magnetic arrangement that serves multiple functions. The same magnetic components used for propulsion and navigation also enable performance of predefined functions such as payload release or tool activation, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining remote maneuverability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 navigation and release of payloads or operation of tools within the body, ensuring accurate delivery and functionality at predetermined locations, enhancing the effectiveness of medical interventions.

Implementation Method 1

a magnetic arrangement disposed within the cavity, The miniature device being configured such that the magnetic arrangement, within a rotating magnetic field, effects one of performance of the function and propulsion of the miniature device within the patient

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic field interaction: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

the magnetic arrangement, within a rotating magnetic field, effects propulsion of the miniature device within the patient

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRotating magnetic field effect: Electromagnetic Propulsion

Implementation Method 3

within a magnetic field gradient, effects the other of performance of the function and propulsion of the miniature device within the patient

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic field gradient effect: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS20230038074A1Magnetic miniature device and system for remotely maneuvering it

Publication Date: 2023.02.09 BIONAUT LABS LTD

AI summary

A miniature device configured to be maneuvered within a patient under manipulation by an external magnetic field and to selectively perform a predefined function is provided. The miniature device comprises a shell defining therewithin an internal cavity, and a magnetic arrangement disposed within the cavity. The miniature device is configured such that the magnetic arrangement, within a rotating magnetic field, effects one of performance of the function and propulsion of the miniature device within the patient, and, within a magnetic field gradient, effects the other of performance of the function and propulsion of the miniature device within the patient.