Marker Localization Probe With Pyramidal Antenna Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for localizing lesions during surgical procedures, such as lumpectomies, are imprecise due to the potential movement or migration of localization wires or seeds, providing limited three-dimensional guidance and risking incomplete removal of lesions or unnecessary removal of healthy tissue.
Innovation Solution
A probe system with an antenna assembly and controller is used to transmit and receive signals to accurately locate markers within the body, utilizing ultra-wideband radar and infrared light for enhanced precision and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional image processing techniques are used to track markers, then the system is simpler to implement, but the precision and accuracy of marker localization deteriorates due to marker motion blur and loss of distinctive features
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary coordinate transformation process that maps markers from the blurred image coordinate system to a standardized world coordinate system. This intermediary transformation layer allows the system to maintain simplicity while achieving high precision by decoupling the capture process from the measurement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the marker detection problem from direct image space measurement to a parameter-based coordinate transformation approach. By changing the measurement parameters from pixel-based image coordinates to calibrated world coordinates through transformation matrices, the system achieves sub-pixel localization precision without requiring higher image resolution.
2Measurement precision
If multiple cameras are used to improve localization accuracy, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity and computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the localization task into separate segments: each camera independently detects markers in its own coordinate system, then a coordinate transformation process integrates the data. This segmentation allows multiple cameras to contribute to precision without requiring complex real-time coordination between them.
Solution Approach 2:
The coordinate transformation framework serves multiple functions simultaneously: it calibrates different camera coordinate systems, transforms markers from various viewing angles, and integrates measurements from multiple cameras into a unified world coordinate system. This universal transformation approach handles multi-camera data without requiring camera-specific processing pipelines.
3Measurement precision
If high-resolution imaging is used to maintain marker features during motion, then measurement precision improves, but energy consumption and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical approach of capturing sharp high-resolution images with a computational approach using coordinate transformation. Instead of relying on high imaging quality to preserve marker features, the system uses mathematical transformation to accurately locate markers even when they appear blurred or distorted in the image.
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 provides precise three-dimensional localization of markers, reducing the risk of incomplete lesion removal and healthy tissue loss by stabilizing the marker position and enhancing signal clarity.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting, by one or more transmit antenna elements on one or more of the proximal surfaces, transmit signals into the body; receiving, by one or more receive antenna elements on one or more of the proximal surfaces, receive signals that are reflected from the marker
Implementation Method 2
receiving, by one or more receive antenna elements on one or more of the proximal surfaces, receive signals that are reflected from the marker
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Probes and related systems and methods are provided for localizing markers implanted within a patient's body. The probe includes an antenna assembly adjacent a distal end thereof including a ceramic base including a planar distal surface and four proximal surfaces extending at an angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the probe to define a generally pyramidal shape. The base includes antenna elements on the proximal surfaces and radial slots between adjacent proximal surfaces to substantially isolate the antenna elements from one another. A controller is coupled to the antenna elements for transmitting signals into a patient's body and receiving reflected signals reflected from a marker implanted within the patient's body to identify and/or localize the marker.