RF Co-Localization of Medical Devices in the Patient Reference Frame
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional localization techniques in medical environments suffer from limitations such as the need for unobstructed line of sight, susceptibility to lighting conditions, insufficient accuracy and precision, and difficulty in identifying objects, making them unsuitable for precise coordination of medical devices and patients.
Innovation Solution
A radio-frequency (RF) co-localization system using RF interrogator systems and target devices to determine positions of medical devices and patients in a common reference frame, enabling precise and accurate localization and control of medical devices relative to patients, independent of lighting conditions and line of sight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional localization techniques (optical methods) are used, then the system can identify objects and track positions, but the accuracy and precision are insufficient for precise coordination of medical devices and patients
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical localization systems with radio-frequency (RF) based localization systems. The RF interrogator transmits signals that are reflected off metallic tags attached to medical devices and the patient support, enabling precise positioning without relying on optical line-of-sight. This substitution of physical principle (from optical to RF electromagnetic) resolves the contradiction by providing millimeter-level precision and reliability in coordinated radiation therapy and surgical procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter used for localization from optical properties (light reflection, color) to RF electromagnetic properties (signal reflection, time of flight). By using RF frequencies and measuring signal characteristics such as phase shift and time delay, the system achieves superior measurement precision and reliability for medical device coordination, overcoming the limitations of conventional optical methods.
2Adaptability or versatility
If optical localization methods are used, then object identification is possible, but the methods are susceptible to lighting conditions and require unobstructed line of sight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes RF electromagnetic wave interaction with matter for optical interaction. The RF interrogator transmits radio frequency signals that reflect off metallic tags, and the system localizes objects based on signal characteristics rather than light. This eliminates susceptibility to lighting conditions and line-of-sight requirements, providing environmental adaptability while maintaining or improving localization reliability in medical procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces metallic tags as intermediary elements that are attached to medical devices and the patient support. These tags serve as reflectors for RF signals, enabling the interrogator to detect position and orientation without requiring direct line of sight or being affected by environmental lighting conditions. The tags mediate between the RF field and the objects to be localized, improving both adaptability and reliability.
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 safe and accurate performance of medical tasks by coordinating medical devices with patients, improving safety and reliability in procedures like robot-assisted surgery and targeted radiation therapy with millimeter resolution and real-time tracking.
Implementation Method 1
control the RF interrogator system to transmit one or more first RF signals; control the RF interrogator system to receive one or more second RF signals transmitted by the one or more first RF target devices responsive to the one or more first RF signals
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for facilitating interactions between a medical device (e.g., an imaging device, a surgical tool, a robotic arm, etc.) and a patient using radio frequency (RF) co-localization are provided. The systems include a radio-frequency (RF) interrogator system, one or more first RF target devices for coupling to a patient support for supporting a patient with respect to whom a medical device is to perform a task, and one or more second RF target devices for coupling to the medical device. A controller determines a position of the patient support within an RF interrogator system reference frame, a first position of the medical device within the RF interrogator system reference frame, a transformation between the RF interrogator system reference frame and a patient support reference frame, and a second position of the medical device within the patient support reference frame.