Movable EM Antenna Assembly for CT Navigation Interference Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electromagnetic navigation (EMN) systems for computed tomography (CT) scanners face challenges in generating precise electromagnetic field mappings, which are laborious and time-consuming, especially when multiple antenna assemblies are used, and are not compatible with real-time CT imaging due to interference.
Innovation Solution
An EM device with a moving arrangement that allows the antenna assembly to move relative to the CT scan plane or the patient, enabling efficient electromagnetic field mapping without extensive manual measurements, and includes a user interface for control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple antenna assemblies are employed to enable small electromagnetic sensor for deeper body portions, then the ability to determine multiple degrees of freedom of the sensor is improved, but the burden of generating electromagnetic field mappings increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a pre-generated electromagnetic field mapping model (a virtual copy of the electromagnetic field distribution) instead of performing exhaustive physical measurements at hundreds of thousands of locations. This computational model allows the system to determine sensor position and orientation without repeating the laborious mapping process for each antenna assembly configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic field mapping is performed in advance during a planning phase before the actual navigation procedure. This preliminary generation of the field map allows subsequent navigation operations to proceed without repeating the time-consuming measurement process, enabling real-time sensor tracking during procedures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If electromagnetic navigation system is used within interventional CT suite, then real-time CT imaging compatibility is improved, but interference between EMN system and CT scanner occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna assembly is made movable relative to the CT scan plane, allowing it to be dynamically positioned out of the CT imaging path during scanning and moved into position for electromagnetic navigation during non-scanning phases. This dynamic reconfiguration enables the system to alternate between CT imaging and EMN operations without permanent interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The system operates in periodic cycles, alternating between CT scanning phases and electromagnetic navigation phases. During CT scanning, the antenna assembly is retracted or positioned to avoid interference; during navigation phases, it is deployed for sensor tracking. This periodic operation allows both systems to function within the same suite without continuous interference.
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
Facilitates accurate electromagnetic navigation with reduced development time and cost, allowing EMN systems to be used in interventional CT suites with real-time CT imaging compatibility.
Implementation Method 1
an antenna assembly radiates an electromagnetic field throughout the chest of the patient
Implementation Method 2
an electromagnetic sensor that senses the radiated electromagnetic field, and a computing device determines a location and/or an orientation
Data Source
AI summary
An EM device is provided that includes an antenna assembly for radiating at least one electromagnetic field for electromagnetic navigation. The EM device also includes a moving arrangement coupled to the antenna assembly and configured to either move the antenna assembly toward and away from a CT scan plane or move a patient toward and away from the antenna assembly. An operating system is provided that includes a CT scanner defining a CT scan plane, and a patient table housing an antenna assembly and a moving arrangement. A method is provided that includes engaging a moving arrangement to move a patient, activating the CT scanner, and activating the antenna of an electromagnetic navigation system.