Spherical In Vivo Imaging Device with Asymmetric Weighting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing in-vivo imaging devices are limited in size reduction due to circuitry, component widths, and antenna size, which restricts access to narrow body lumens and results in unstable image streaming and orientation issues during imaging.
Innovation Solution
An in-vivo imaging device with a spherical or ellipsoidal shape, featuring a support with an image sensor, illumination source, and antenna on one plane, and a transmitter and battery on another, with the antenna integrated into other elements to minimize space, and optical isolation elements to stabilize image capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the imaging device size is reduced to access narrow body lumens, then access capability is improved, but the antenna size and component layout become constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes a spherical geometry to distribute components across multiple surfaces and planes, effectively adding dimensional freedom to the compact design. The antenna is positioned on the outer surface of the sphere while imaging components are arranged on internal planes, allowing spatial separation without increasing overall device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested arrangement where the imaging sensor, illumination sources, and optical elements are positioned within the spherical housing in a concentric manner. The illumination sources are placed around the imaging sensor, creating a nested configuration that maximizes space utilization within the constrained volume.
2Volume of moving object
If the device is made compact with integrated antenna, then device size is reduced, but image stability and orientation control become challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an asymmetric weight distribution within the spherical device by positioning the battery and electronic components off-center. This creates a defined center of gravity that is offset from the geometric center, enabling the device to maintain a stable orientation with the imaging sensor facing a specific direction during movement through body lumens.
Solution Approach 2:
The spherical shape of the device provides inherent stability during movement, allowing it to roll smoothly along body lumens without tumbling. The curved surface distributes mechanical stresses evenly and maintains a consistent orientation relative to the lumens, ensuring stable image capture throughout the imaging process.
Data Source
AI summary
A substantially spherical in vivo imaging device may be used for imaging body lumens in the GI tract. The imaging device may include for example a ballast weight for setting a preferred orientation of the device within the body lumen. The substantially spherical shape of the in vivo imaging device may facilitate capturing steady streams of imaging data in large body lumens. A method of manufacture is presented.