Magnetic Localization Sensor Coil Configuration for Distortion Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic localization systems used in medical procedures are susceptible to errors due to magnetic field distortions caused by metallic objects, leading to inaccurate positioning of medical devices within the body.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic detection sensor system with a novel configuration of five sensor coils, including a central coil and four peripheral coils oriented orthogonally, is used to detect and correct for magnetic field distortions, providing a robust and accurate localization system by maximizing the detection of distortions and compensating for position errors independent of the relative orientation of the distorting object.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a magnetic localization system is used to position catheters within the body, then the precision of catheter positioning is improved, but the system becomes susceptible to errors from magnetic field distortions caused by metallic objects
Solution Approach 1:
A magnetic distortion sensor acts as an intermediary device that detects magnetic field distortions caused by metallic objects. The sensor provides distortion data to the localization system, which then uses this information to compensate for positioning errors. This intermediary measurement allows the system to maintain reliability despite the presence of distorting objects in the magnetic field.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring magnetic field distortions and using this information to adjust localization calculations. The distortion sensor provides real-time data about field anomalies, and the localization algorithm incorporates this feedback to correct position estimates, thereby maintaining accurate catheter positioning even when metallic objects are present.
2Reliability
If magnetic field distortions are detected and corrected, then the reliability of localization is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional sensor coils and processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic distortion sensor serves multiple functions: it detects magnetic field distortions, provides data for compensation algorithms, and enables the system to operate reliably in the presence of metallic objects. By making the sensor system multi-functional, the patent reduces the need for separate dedicated distortion detection devices, thereby managing complexity while improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system is segmented into multiple sensor coils arranged in a specific geometry (e.g., three orthogonal coils). Each coil measures the magnetic field along a specific axis, and the combined data provides comprehensive distortion information. This segmentation allows the system to detect distortions from multiple directions independently, improving reliability without requiring a single overly complex sensor.
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 significantly improves the accuracy of medical device positioning by effectively identifying and correcting for magnetic field distortions, enhancing the precision of medical procedures by maintaining accurate catheter location data despite the presence of metallic objects.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the sensor coils sense the magnetic field within a sensing region aligned with a longitudinal axis of the sensor coil, and outputs an electrical signal indicative of the sensed magnetic field
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to systems and apparatuses for detecting and correcting for magnetic field distortions within a magnetic field used for medical magnetic localization systems. In one example embodiment, a system is disclosed including a magnetic field generator and a magnetic detection sensor. The magnetic field generator generates the magnetic field for localization of a catheter within the patient. The magnetic detection sensor includes a plurality of sensor coils positioned at fixed distances and orientations relative to one another. Each of the sensor coils sense the magnetic field within a sensing region aligned with a longitudinal axis of the sensor coil, and outputs an electrical signal indicative of the sensed magnetic field. The plurality of sensing coils form two substantially contiguous sensing regions, a first continuous sensing region above the magnetic detection sensor, and a second continuous sensing region below the magnetic detection sensor.