Torque Sensor Detects MRI Field for Implantable Device Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Implantable medical devices (IMDs) face challenges during MRI scans due to the undesirable effects of magnetic and electromagnetic fields generated by MRI devices, which can interfere with the operation of IMDs and require inconvenient manual reprogramming before and after the scan.
Innovation Solution
An IMD equipped with a torque sensor to detect the static MRI field and automatically transition to an MRI-compatible mode, eliminating the need for manual reprogramming by differentiating the static MRI field from other magnetic fields based on torque and field strength, thereby minimizing interference from gradient and RF fields.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual reprogramming is performed before and after MRI scan, then IMD operation safety is improved, but patient convenience and time efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The IMD automatically performs the reprogramming action in advance by detecting the approach of an MRI device through its static magnetic field and transitioning to MRI-compatible mode before the scan begins. This eliminates the need for manual reprogramming before and after the scan, saving time while maintaining safety.
2Reliability
If manual reprogramming is performed before and after MRI scan, then IMD operation safety is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The IMD performs self-service by automatically detecting the MRI environment through its torque sensor and magnetic field detector, and autonomously transitioning between normal and MRI-compatible operating modes. This eliminates the need for clinician intervention, improving convenience while maintaining operational safety.
3Measurement precision
If torque sensor is used to detect MRI device, then detection specificity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a torque sensor as an intermediary detection mechanism that indirectly measures the static magnetic field of the MRI device by detecting torque on a magnetized element. This provides specific detection capability while keeping the overall system complexity manageable through a simple sensing principle.
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 IMD can automatically detect the presence of an MRI device and switch to a mode that reduces adverse effects from MRI fields, ensuring reliable operation during scans without the need for manual reprogramming, thus enhancing convenience and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a torque sensor configured to generate an output signal that varies as a function of a torque imposed on the torque sensor by an external magnetic field
Data Source
AI summary
An implantable medical device (IMD) is described that automatically detects the presence of an external magnetic field, such as that generated by an MRI device. The IMD includes a torque sensor configured to generate an output signal that varies as a function of a torque imposed on the torque sensor by an external magnetic field and a control module configured to control operation of the implantable medical device based on the signal output of the torque sensor.