Magnetic Field Module for Capsule Endoscope Posture Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current capsule endoscopes face difficulties in controlling posture and navigating through the digestive organs, particularly in the stomach and duodenum, leading to incomplete examinations and longer procedure times due to limited control over movement and positioning.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic field generation module comprising a main core, auxiliary cores, coils, and a control unit that generates and controls a magnetic field to position the capsule endoscope perpendicular to the digestive organ wall, incline it, or rotate it 360 degrees around the central axis, allowing for comprehensive examination of the digestive organs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a capsule endoscope is used to examine digestive organs, then the entire lining of the small intestine can be seen through peristalsis, but it is difficult to control the posture of the capsule endoscope in the desired direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical posture control mechanisms with a magnetic field-based control system. A magnetic field generation device creates external magnetic fields that interact with a magnet inside the capsule endoscope, enabling remote control of the capsule's orientation and position without mechanical actuators or moving parts within the capsule itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the operator and the capsule endoscope. The magnetic field serves as a medium to transmit control commands from the external magnetic field generation device to the capsule's internal magnet, enabling indirect but precise control of capsule posture and movement.
2Productivity
If medical staff individually check images from the capsule endoscope, then all parts can be examined, but the time required for examination becomes longer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary positioning and orientation of the capsule endoscope using magnetic field control before image acquisition begins. By pre-positioning the capsule in optimal orientations and maintaining desired postures during examination, the system reduces the need for repeated imaging and manual review, thereby decreasing total examination time and improving efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If magnets are attached to control capsule endoscope movements, then all parts of digestive organs can be examined, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the magnetic field generation system into multiple independent magnetic field generation devices or modular units. Each device can generate magnetic fields in specific directions or regions, and their combined effect enables comprehensive control of the capsule endoscope. This segmentation allows flexible configuration and reduces the complexity of any single device while maintaining overall system versatility.
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 control of the capsule endoscope's posture, allowing it to photograph all parts of the digestive organs, including hard-to-reach areas like the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, small intestine, and large intestine, thereby improving examination efficiency and completeness.
Implementation Method 1
auxiliary coils wound on the auxiliary cores, respectively; and a power source unit for applying a current to the auxiliary coils
Implementation Method 2
a main core; at least two auxiliary cores adjacent to the main core and arranged around the main core
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic field generation module is disclosed. The magnetic field generation module comprises: a main core; at least two auxiliary cores positioned in the vicinity of and around the main core; auxiliary coils wound on respective auxiliary cores; and a power source unit for applying a current to the auxiliary coils.