Multi-field Magnetic Tracking with Segmented Coils
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic tracking systems face challenges in accurately determining the location and orientation of objects within a three-dimensional region using magnetic fields, particularly in medical procedures where precise tracking of instruments is crucial.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic tracking system comprising multiple sets of magnetic field generators producing distinct magnetic fields, along with a computing device that computes the position and orientation of a sensor based on detected fields, utilizing electromagnetic coils and adjustable parameters to control field shape and direction, and incorporating a shield to minimize interference from conductive objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sets of magnetic field generators are used to produce distinct magnetic field shapes, then measurement precision and tracking accuracy are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic field generation system is divided into multiple independent sets of field generators, each responsible for producing a specific field shape (e.g., dipole, quadrupole, hexapole). This segmentation allows the system to generate complex field patterns by combining simpler fields, improving tracking accuracy while maintaining manageable system architecture through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
Each set of magnetic field generators is designed to produce a specific field shape that serves multiple purposes in the tracking system. The same generator sets can be used for both positioning and orientation tracking, and different field shapes can be activated depending on the specific measurement requirements, making the system versatile and adaptable to various surgical tracking needs.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If magnetic field generators operate at different frequencies, then interference from conductive objects is reduced, but measurement and control difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different sets of magnetic field generators are operated at distinct frequencies, creating periodic field patterns that cycle at different rates. This frequency multiplexing approach allows the system to distinguish between fields from different generator sets, reducing interference from conductive objects while enabling the detection system to identify and measure each field component through frequency discrimination.
Solution Approach 2:
The computing device acts as an intermediary that receives signals from multiple magnetic field generators operating at different frequencies, processes the combined field measurements, and computes the sensor position and orientation. This intermediary processing capability manages the complexity of multi-frequency field detection by systematically analyzing the composite field signals and extracting positional information.
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
Enables precise tracking of objects with multiple degrees of freedom, improving accuracy and adaptability in medical procedures by generating complex magnetic field shapes and reducing interference from conductive materials.
Implementation Method 1
a first set of magnetic field generators configured to produce a first magnetic field having a first shape within a three dimensional region and at least a second set of magnetic field generators configured to produce a second magnetic field having a second shape within the three dimensional region
Implementation Method 2
A sensor is positioned on the object (e.g., a piece of equipment or a human body) to detect magnetic fields present within the given region
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic tracking system includes a first set of magnetic field generators configured to produce a first magnetic field having a first shape within a three dimensional region and at least a second set of magnetic field generators configured to produce a second magnetic field having a second shape within the three dimensional region. The system also includes a computing device configured to compute a position of a sensor within the three dimensional region based on the first and second magnetic fields being detected by the sensor.