MRI Endoscope Tip Coil Layout for Precise Steering With Low Heating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopes face challenges in MRI environments due to image distortion, weight, bulkiness, and Joule heating issues when using magnetic elements for actuation, limiting precision and mobility in complex anatomies like the brain.
Innovation Solution
A quad-coil design with four side coils arranged around the tip, connected in series, and an axial coil, optimized for minimal torque and heating, allowing precise steering within MRI fields using Lorentz force actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If magnetic elements are used for actuation in MRI environments, then steering capability is improved, but Joule heating and image distortion increase
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic actuation system is segmented into multiple independent coil units (first, second, third, and fourth coil units) arranged around the longitudinal axis. Each coil unit can be independently controlled to generate magnetic moments in different directions, enabling precise steering while distributing the heating load across multiple segments rather than concentrating it in a single coil.
Solution Approach 2:
Different coil units are positioned at specific locations around the longitudinal axis to create localized magnetic fields where needed. The first and second coil units are arranged to generate magnetic moments in a first direction, while the third and fourth coil units generate magnetic moments in a second direction perpendicular to the first, allowing directional control and optimizing the magnetic field distribution to minimize unnecessary heating.
2Ease of operation
If magnetic elements are used for actuation in MRI environments, then steering capability is improved, but image distortion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The segmentation of the magnetic actuation system into multiple distributed coil units allows for more uniform magnetic field generation along the longitudinal axis. This distributed arrangement reduces localized magnetic field gradients that would otherwise cause severe image distortion in MRI environments, while still maintaining effective steering capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The strategic positioning of coil units at different locations around the longitudinal axis enables localized magnetic field generation only where actuation is needed, rather than creating a pervasive magnetic field throughout the entire endoscope. This reduces the overall magnetic interference with MRI imaging while preserving steering functionality.
3Ease of operation
If conventional coil arrangements are used, then magnetic actuation is achieved, but device bulkiness increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple coil units are merged into a compact arrangement around the longitudinal axis, with each coil unit integrating both structural support and magnetic actuation functions. The coil units are positioned such that they share common structural elements and space, reducing the overall volume compared to conventional separate coil assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The coil units are arranged in a radial configuration around the longitudinal axis, utilizing the circumferential dimension to pack multiple coils into a compact cross-sectional area. This radial arrangement allows four separate coil units to be integrated into a small diameter endoscope without requiring excessive length or radial expansion.
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 design achieves compact, high-steerability, and precise endoscope navigation within MRI environments, minimizing Joule heating and image distortion, enhancing surgical precision and safety.
Implementation Method 1
The set of coils comprises four side coils arranged around the tip such that a straight line standing orthogonal on a longitudinal direction of the tip crosses a center of the respective side coil
Implementation Method 2
allowing precise steering within MRI fields using Lorentz force actuation
Implementation Method 3
The design achieves compact, high-steerability, and precise endoscope navigation within MRI environments, minimizing Joule heating and image distortion
Data Source
AI summary
An endoscope and a method for controlling a movement of the endoscope in a magnetic field, the endoscope comprising a tip, a set of coils surrounding the tip, and power wires arranged to supply the set of coils with electrical energy, wherein the set of coils comprises four side coils arranged around the tip such that a straight line extending orthogonally to a longitudinal direction of the tip crosses a center of the respective side coil.