TMS Coil with Embedded Imaging for Precise Neuronavigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) neuronavigation are imprecise, lack direct visual confirmation of coil placement, and require complex and costly equipment, limiting accessibility and increasing the risk of adverse events due to off-target stimulation.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating imaging devices and contact sensors into the TMS coil for direct visualization and real-time monitoring of coil placement, along with a treatment cap featuring anatomical markings, to ensure precise and consistent targeting of brain regions without the need for external sensors or MRI guidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If fabric cap with coordinate system markers is used for neuronavigation, then the system is simple and easy to operate, but the measurement precision and reliability of coil placement are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical marker-based navigation system with a magnetic field-based tracking system. Magnetic sensors detect the position and orientation of the TMS coil relative to the head by measuring magnetic field characteristics, eliminating the need for physical markers on the cap and providing more precise, real-time feedback on coil placement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the TMS coil and the head. By using magnetic field sensors to detect coil position and orientation, the system provides an indirect but more accurate measurement method compared to direct visual observation of markers, resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If complex frameless stereotaxic positioning system with optical markers and stereo cameras is used, then the measurement precision and reliability of coil placement are improved, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of position and orientation detection from the complex optical tracking system. By using only magnetic field sensors to detect coil characteristics, the system removes the unnecessary components (stereo cameras, multiple optical markers, complex software processing) while retaining the core functionality of accurate coil positioning feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive, complex optical tracking equipment with simpler, more affordable magnetic field sensors. This substitution reduces device complexity and cost while maintaining adequate measurement precision for TMS coil placement, making the system more accessible without sacrificing essential accuracy.
3Ease of operation
If visual confirmation methods are used to monitor coil placement, then the ease of operation is maintained, but the reliability of ensuring optimal coil positioning and contact is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time feedback by using magnetic field sensors to continuously monitor coil position and orientation relative to the head. This feedback mechanism provides objective, quantifiable data on coil placement accuracy, replacing subjective visual confirmation and significantly improving the reliability of ensuring optimal positioning while maintaining ease of operation through automated monitoring.
4Measurement precision
If MRI or 3-dimensional image alignment is used for neuronavigation, then the measurement precision and reliability of target localization are improved, but the device complexity and accessibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of anatomical landmark detection from the MRI-based navigation system. By using magnetic field sensors to detect coil position relative to head anatomy, the system removes the requirement for MRI scanning and complex image processing while maintaining adequate precision for targeting brain regions, thereby reducing device complexity and improving accessibility.
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
This approach enhances the accuracy and consistency of TMS coil placement, reduces training time for technicians, and increases accessibility of TMS treatment to a broader range of settings by simplifying the equipment and process, while minimizing the risk of adverse events.
Implementation Method 1
one or more imaging devices incorporated into the coil and configured to permit direct visualization of the TMS coil on the patient's head
Implementation Method 2
a TMS system configured to generate a magnetic field to be applied to a patient's brain region, the TMS system comprising a transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) pulse generator as well as an inductor coil
Data Source
AI summary
A transcranial magnetic stimulation system includes a magnetic field generator configured to generate a magnetic field to be applied to a patient's head, the magnetic field generator comprising one or more magnetic induction coils and a housing for the coils. One or more imaging devices configured to permit direct visualization of the coils on the patient's head are embedded in the housing. The one or more imaging device(s) may include one or more cameras, preferably one or more visible light imaging cameras, one or more ultraviolet light imaging cameras, or one or more infrared imaging cameras.