Device, system and method for magnetically maneuvering an in vivo device

[0056]In the first embodiment, FIG. 3A shows the in vivo imaging device with the center of mass marked by point G. Typically, the position of the magnet affects the center of mass of the device, and is chosen to be on the side of the device which needs to be closer to the tissue. For example, in one embodiment, the imager needs to be close to the tissue in order to enable optical biopsy functionality. The location of the device's center of gravity (and the magnet) will be selected as the side with the optical biopsy imager. In another embodiment, the device may be configured for performing a thorough scanning of the stomach, as will be described in FIG. 3 hereinbelow.

[0057]FIG. 3B shows another embodiment of the magnetic elements within the capsule device.

[0058]FIG. 3C illustrates a third embodiment according to the invention. In this embodiment, the in vivo device includes a tube element which may hold the magnet. The tube can be positioned along a longitudinal axis of the device, but can also be positioned diagonally or along latitudinal axis. The magnet element placed within the tube can move freely from one side of the tube to the other. The device's center of gravity, G, may also change with the movement of the magnet element. In this embodiment, the center of gravity of the in vivo device may be controlled externally by changing the direction or the intensity of the external magnetic field. The field of view of the device may be controlled externally by the magnetic field.

[0059]Reference is now made to FIG. 4, which illustrates an exemplary movement of the in vivo imaging device in a relatively large organ such as the stomach. The center of gravity may be selected to be on the side of the device which is opposite the imaging si...