Method for minimizing tracking system interference

A method for minimizing tracking system interference caused by a motor driven ultrasonic imaging device comprising:

• providing an ultrasonic imaging device adapted to obtain a generally real time three-dimensional image, said ultrasonic imaging device comprising a motor configured to rotate a transducer array within a catheter housing;
• providing a field sensor disposed within the catheter housing such that the distance between the field sensor and the motor is generally constant;
• estimating a noise signal produced by said motor;
• and
• removing the noise signal from a composite signal recorded by the field sensor.

A method for minimizing tracking system interference caused by a motor driven ultrasonic imaging device comprising:

• providing an ultrasonic imaging device adapted to obtain a generally real time three-dimensional image, said ultrasonic imaging device comprising a motor configured to rotate a transducer array within a catheter housing;
• providing a tracking system operatively connected to the catheter housing, said tracking system configured to estimate a position and/or orientation of the catheter housing;
• and
• coordinating the operation of the motor and the tracking system comprising:
• operating the motor in a manner adapted to minimize a noise signal produced by the motor;
• and
• implementing the tracking system to estimate the position and/or orientation of the catheter housing exclusively during periods wherein said motor is being operated in a manner adapted to minimize the noise signal.