Magnetic control platform for wireless endoscopic capsules

Abstract

This paper presents an active magnetic platform for guiding endoscopic capsules (EC) inside the human body. The system is composed by an external permanent magnet (EPM) made of neodymium Nd-Fe-B rare with a high-level of magnetization (N48) for allowing a maximum magnetic field of 1.5 T. Inside of a standard EC [1] (with dimensions of 26 mm of length and 11 mm in diameter) is placed a small internal permanent magnet (IPM) made of neodymium with cylindrical shape, diameter of 3 mm, length of 8 mm and magnetization of N48. Remote control of ECs allows reliable diagnostic of the esophagus with the required time duration (not possible with the standard EC). The possibility to stop and to rotate the EC will provide detailed images of the esophagus, stomach and small bowel. Also, increasing the speed of the EC will save power battery that will allow the use of a battery with reduced dimensions and opening space for the placement of the IPM inside of the EC.