The MathWorks, Inc., has announced that engineers at Israel-based Given Imaging Ltd. implemented MATLAB as the core technology platform in the development of the M2ATM Capsule, a new method for physicians to examine the human intestinal tract. The ingestible capsule holds a miniature video camera, which transmits images of the intestinal track back to the attending physician via a receiver worn by the patient. Using The MathWorks software enabled Given Imaging engineers to reduce the development time by several orders of magnitude. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the M2A Capsule on August 1, 2001.
"MATLAB is an essential tool for any developer who writes algorithms, tests and checks systems and plans technically complex models," said Dr. Arkady Glukhovsky, vice president and Chief Scientist at Given Imaging. "Without MATLAB and the Image Processing Toolbox, it is hard to believe that we could have completed a development of this complexity in such a short time frame. We are continuing to use the software for image enhancement, segmentation and classification, as well as the development of future versions of the capsule."
Given Imaging engineers used MATLAB to develop and test the algorithms that decode the information transmitted by the M2A Capsule to its recorder and then process the images, which can later be viewed as streamline video or as individual photographs. The MATLAB Image Processing Toolbox was used for the feasibility study, development and refinement phases of the M2A Capsule System. The Given Imaging team also selected the MATLAB Signal Processing Toolbox to refine design parameters for preliminary visualization of algorithm results.
"The landmark work done by Given Imaging is another testament to the expanding usage of MATLAB for Image Processing that spans product development as well as research," said Patricia Katzman, Image Processing marketing manager at The MathWorks.
Given Imaging Ltd. was established in 1998 to develop, produce and market an innovative platform capsule technology for diagnostics and therapy of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Given maintains its corporate headquarters, research and development laboratories, and production plant in Yoqneam, Israel. The US Headquarters of Given Imaging are located in Atlanta, Ga., the European Headquarters are located in Hamburg, Germany and the company headquarters for Australia are located in Sydney. For additional information about Given Imaging, please visit www.givenimaging.com
The MathWorks is a leading developer of technical computing software for engineers and scientists in industry, government, and education. With an extensive product set based on MATLAB and Simulink, The MathWorks provides software and services to solve challenging problems and accelerate innovation in automotive, aerospace, communications, financial services, biotechnology, electronics, instrumentation, process, and other industries. The MathWorks was founded in 1984 and employs more than 1000 people worldwide, with headquarters in Natick, MA. For additional information, visit www.mathworks.com.
