Microwave Generator Temperature Correction for Thermocouple Errors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Microwave ablation systems face inaccuracies in temperature measurements due to parasitic junctions and other factors, which can affect the efficacy of tumor treatment.
Innovation Solution
A microwave generator system with a remote thermocouple module that dynamically calculates corrected temperature values by compensating for measurement errors using algorithms based on multiple temperature readings and the generator's operating state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If temperature measurements are taken using thermocouples in microwave ablation systems, then temperature monitoring is enabled, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to parasitic junctions and other factors
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors temperature measurements and compares them against expected values based on generator operating parameters. When deviations are detected, the system dynamically corrects the measurements by applying compensation algorithms that account for parasitic junction effects, thereby maintaining measurement accuracy throughout the ablation procedure
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameters used for temperature measurement by incorporating multiple correction factors based on generator temperature, ambient temperature, and operating state. Instead of relying on a single raw thermocouple reading, the system transforms the measurement through a series of parameter adjustments to eliminate parasitic junction errors
2Measurement precision
If multiple temperature correction factors are applied dynamically, then measurement accuracy improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary measurements of generator temperature and ambient temperature before the ablation procedure begins. These baseline measurements are stored and used to establish correction factors that are applied throughout the procedure, avoiding the need for complex real-time calculations during active ablation
Solution Approach 2:
The correction algorithm is divided into separate modular components, each handling a specific aspect of temperature compensation. The system segments the correction process into distinct steps: measuring generator temperature, measuring ambient temperature, determining operating state, and applying appropriate correction factors. This modular approach simplifies implementation and maintenance
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 reduces temperature measurement errors to within ±0.5 degrees Celsius, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of microwave ablation procedures.
Implementation Method 1
Microwave ablation systems may use thermocouples (TC) to measure temperature of tissue or devices
Implementation Method 2
In microwave ablation, an electromagnetic field is used to heat and destroy tumor cells
Data Source
AI summary
A method for calculating a corrected temperature value (RTP corrected). The method includes determining a measured temperature value from a remote thermocouple probe (RTP measured), determining a temperature value of a remote thermocouple module (RTM), determining a temperature value of a system controller module (SCM), determining a temperature value of a microwave module (MWM), and calculating the corrected temperature value (RTP corrected). The corrected temperature value (RTP corrected) is based on the determined temperature value of the remote thermocouple probe (RTP measured), the determined temperature value of the system controller module (SCM), and at least one of the determined temperature value of the remote thermocouple module (RTM) or the determined temperature value of the microwave module (MWM).