Surgical system, operating device and program

Abstract

To provide a surgery support robot that can easily perform work in the vicinity of a body surface of a patient on which a plurality of trocars are disposed as compared with a case where a pivot position is mechanically determined.SOLUTION: A medical manipulator 1 (surgery support robot) includes an arm 60 in which medical equipment 4 is attached to the tip side, and an operation part 80 attached to the arm 60 for operating the arm 60. The operation part 80 includes a pivot button 85 for teaching a pivot position PP that serves as a fulcrum of the movement of the medical equipment 4 attached to the arm 60. The pivot position PP is taught when the pivot button 85 is depressed in the state that the tip of the medical equipment 4 attached to the tip side of the arm 60 is moved to the position corresponding to an insertion position of the trocar T inserted into the body surface S of the patient P when the arm 60 is operated by the operation part 80.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a surgical system, an operating device, and a program, and more particularly to a surgical system, an operating device, and a program in which a medical instrument attached to an arm is moved using a pivot position as a fulcrum. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, a surgical support robot is known in which a medical instrument attached to an arm is moved around a pivot position as a fulcrum (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] The above-mentioned Patent Document 1 discloses a robot manipulator assembly including a manipulator arm and a tool (such as a surgical instrument) attached to the manipulator arm. The manipulator arm is configured to translate or rotate the tool attached to the manipulator arm.

[0004] The manipulator arm of Patent Document 1 is provided with an instrument holder for translating a tool along the longitudinal direction. A cannula is held as a distal member of the instrument holder. The tip of the tool held by the instrument holder is inserted into the cannula. In the robot manipulator assembly of Patent Document 1, a predetermined portion of the cannula is predetermined as a pivot point. That is, in the robot manipulator assembly of Patent Document 1, the pivot point is mechanically determined so as to be arranged in a parallelogram with respect to a predetermined portion of the cannula held by the instrument holder. Then, when the cannula held by the instrument holder is inserted into a patient, the tool pivots (rotates) around the pivot point as a fulcrum. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2016-516487 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, in the robot manipulator assembly described in Patent Document 1, each of the four robot manipulator assemblies has an instrument holder that holds four cannulas (trocars). Therefore, the four instrument holders and their cannula-holding mechanisms narrow the space near the patient's body surface into which the four cannulas (trocars) are inserted. This reduces the degree of freedom for the assistant physician to position the trocars to be inserted into the patient, and the instrument holders and other mechanisms get in the way of the assistant physician's assisting work during surgery.

[0007] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and one object of the present invention is to provide a surgical system, operating device, and program that makes it easier to work near the surface of a patient's body where multiple trocars are placed, compared to when pivot points (pivot positions) are mechanically determined. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to achieve the above object, a surgical system according to a first aspect of the present invention is a surgical system comprising a medical manipulator including an arm to which a medical instrument is attached at its distal end and an operation unit provided on the arm for operating the arm, a control device, and a storage device, wherein the medical instrument is used by being inserted into the patient's body through a trocar inserted into the surface of the patient's body, and the operation unit includes a pivot position instruction input unit that stores in the storage device a pivot position that serves as a fulcrum for movement of the medical instrument attached to the arm, and by operating the pivot position instruction input unit, the control device stores a pivot position that serves as a fulcrum for movement of the medical instrument attached to the arm or a position where the medical instrument has been moved in the thickness direction of the abdominal wall from the distal end position. within the patient's abdominal wall The position is configured to be stored in a memory device as a pivot position.

[0009] A surgical system according to a second aspect of the present invention is a surgical system comprising a medical manipulator including a first arm having a first medical instrument attached to its distal end, a second arm having a second medical instrument attached to its distal end, a first operation unit provided on the first arm for operating the first arm, and a second operation unit provided on the second arm for operating the second arm, a control device, and a storage device, wherein the first medical instrument and the second medical instrument are used by being inserted into the patient's body via a trocar inserted into the surface of the patient's body, the first operation unit comprising a first pivot position teaching input unit for causing the storage device to store a first pivot position which serves as a fulcrum for movement of the first medical instrument attached to the first arm, and the second operation unit comprising a second pivot position teaching input unit for causing the storage device to store a second pivot position which serves as a fulcrum for movement of the second medical instrument attached to the second arm, and the control device controls the first medical instrument to be moved to the distal end position of the first medical instrument or in the thickness direction of the abdominal wall from the distal end position by operating the first pivot position teaching input unit. within the patient's abdominal wall The position is stored in the storage device as the first pivot position, and the second pivot position instruction input unit is operated to move the second medical instrument to the distal end position or to the abdominal wall thickness direction from the distal end position. within the patient's abdominal wall The position is configured to be stored in a memory device as a second pivot position.

[0010] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided an operating device for a surgical system, comprising a medical manipulator including an arm to which a medical instrument is attached at its distal end, a control device, and a storage device, the operating device comprising a pivot position instruction input unit provided on the arm for operating the arm and storing in the storage device a pivot position that serves as a fulcrum for movement of the medical instrument attached to the arm, the medical instrument being inserted into the patient's body via a trocar inserted into the surface of the patient's body for use, and the control device, by operating the pivot position instruction input unit, stores a pivot position of the medical instrument moved to the distal end position or in the thickness direction of the abdominal wall from the distal end position. within the patient's abdominal wall The position is stored in memory as the pivot position. The program according to the fourth aspect of the present invention includes: The device is inserted into the patient's body through a trocar inserted into the patient's body surface.A program for controlling a surgical system comprising a medical manipulator including an arm to which a medical instrument is attached and an operation unit provided on the arm for operating the arm, a control device, and a storage device, wherein the operation unit has a pivot position instruction input unit that stores in the storage device a pivot position that serves as a fulcrum for movement of the medical instrument attached to the arm, and the program causes the control device to move the tip of the medical instrument attached to the tip side of the arm to a position corresponding to the insertion position of a trocar inserted into the body surface of a patient, and to move the tip of the medical instrument to the tip position or to a position moved in the thickness direction of the abdominal wall from the tip position by operating the pivot position instruction input unit. within the patient's abdominal wall storing the position as a pivot position in a memory device; [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, as described above, it is easier to work near the surface of a patient's body where multiple trocars are placed, compared to when the pivot point (pivot position) is mechanically determined. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a surgical operation system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a medical manipulator according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 1A and 1B are diagrams showing the configuration of an arm of a medical manipulator according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 1 is a perspective view showing the configuration of an operation unit of a medical manipulator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 5] 1 is a side view showing the configuration of an operation unit of a medical manipulator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 6] 1 is a view showing a state in which an operator grips an operation unit of a medical manipulator according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an endoscope. [Figure 8]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a pivot position teaching tool. [Figure 9] 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the tip of the endoscope has been moved to a position where the outer surface of the trocar comes into contact with the body surface. FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a display screen of a display unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining translational movement of an arm. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the rotational movement of the arm. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control unit of the medical manipulator according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a control block of a control unit of the medical manipulator according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a pivot position setting method according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0014] The configuration of a surgical system 100 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 14. The surgical system 100 includes a medical manipulator 1, which is a patient-side device, and a remote control device 2, which is an operator-side device for operating the medical manipulator 1. The medical manipulator 1 includes a medical cart 3 and is configured to be movable. The remote control device 2 is located at a distance from the medical manipulator 1, and the medical manipulator 1 is configured to be remotely controlled by the remote control device 2. The surgeon inputs commands to the remote control device 2 to cause the medical manipulator 1 to perform a desired operation. The remote control device 2 transmits the input commands to the medical manipulator 1. The medical manipulator 1 operates based on the received commands. The medical manipulator 1 is located in an operating room, which is a sterilized sterile field. The medical manipulator 1 is an example of a "surgery support robot" as defined in the claims.

[0015] The remote control device 2 is placed, for example, inside or outside an operating room. The remote control device 2 includes an operating manipulator arm 21, an operating pedal 22, a touch panel 23, a monitor 24, a support arm 25, and a support bar 26. The operating manipulator arm 21 constitutes an operating handle through which the surgeon inputs commands. The monitor 24 is a scope-type display device that displays images captured by an endoscope. The support arm 25 supports the monitor 24 so that its height is aligned with the surgeon's face. The touch panel 23 is attached to the support bar 26. The medical manipulator 1 can be operated by the remote control device 2 when a sensor (not shown) provided near the monitor 24 detects the surgeon's head. The surgeon operates the operating manipulator arm 21 and the operating pedal 22 while visually checking the affected area on the monitor 24. This inputs commands to the remote control device 2. The commands input to the remote control device 2 are transmitted to the medical manipulator 1.

[0016] The medical cart 3 is provided with a control unit 31 that controls the operation of the medical manipulator 1 and a storage unit 32 that stores programs and the like for controlling the operation of the medical manipulator 1. Based on commands input to the remote control device 2, the control unit 31 of the medical cart 3 controls the operation of the medical manipulator 1.

[0017] The medical cart 3 is also provided with an input device 33. The input device 33 is configured to receive operations for moving and changing the posture of the positioner 40, arm base 50, and multiple arms 60, mainly for preparing for surgery before the procedure. The positioner 40 is an example of an "arm base moving unit" in the claims.

[0018] The medical manipulator 1 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is placed in an operating room. The medical manipulator 1 includes a medical cart 3, a positioner 40, an arm base 50, and a plurality of arms 60. The arm base 50 is attached to the tip of the positioner 40. The arm base 50 has a relatively long rod shape (long shape). The base of each of the plurality of arms 60 is attached to the arm base 50. The plurality of arms 60 are configured to be able to take a folded position (storage position). The arm base 50 and the plurality of arms 60 are used covered with a sterile drape (not shown).

[0019] The positioner 40 is configured, for example, by a seven-axis articulated robot. The positioner 40 is placed on the medical cart 3. The positioner 40 moves the arm base 50. Specifically, the positioner 40 is configured to move the position of the arm base 50 in three dimensions.

[0020] The positioner 40 also includes a base portion 41 and a plurality of link portions 42 connected to the base portion 41. The plurality of link portions 42 are connected to each other by joint portions 43.

[0021] 1, a medical tool 4 is attached to the tip of each of the multiple arms 60. The medical tool 4 includes, for example, a replaceable instrument, an endoscope 6 (see FIG. 7), and the like.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 3, the medical instrument 4 (instrument) includes a driven unit 4a driven by a servo motor M2 mounted on a holder 71 of an arm 60. The instrument also includes an end effector 4b at its tip. The end effector 4b includes, as articulated instruments, forceps, scissors, a glass burr, a needle holder, a microdissector, a stable applier, a tacker, a suction and irrigation tool, a snare wire, and a clip applier. The end effector 4b also includes, as non-articulated instruments, a cutting blade, a cauterizing probe, an irrigator, a catheter, and a suction orifice. The medical instrument 4 also includes a shaft 4c connecting the driven unit 4a and the end effector 4b. The driven unit 4a, the shaft 4c, and the end effector 4b are arranged along the Z direction.

[0023] Next, the configuration of the arm 60 will be described in detail.

[0024] 3, the arm 60 includes an arm section 61 (a base section 62, a link section 63, and a joint section 64) and a translational movement mechanism section 70 provided at the tip of the arm section 61. The arm 60 is configured to move the tip side of the arm 60 three-dimensionally relative to the base side (arm base 50) of the arm 60. The multiple arms 60 have similar configurations.

[0025] The translational movement mechanism 70 is provided on the distal end side of the arm 61, and has the medical instrument 4 attached thereto. The translational movement mechanism 70 translates the medical instrument 4 in the direction of insertion into the patient P. The translational movement mechanism 70 is configured to translate the medical instrument 4 relative to the arm 61. Specifically, the translational movement mechanism 70 is provided with a holder 71 that holds the medical instrument 4. The holder 71 houses a servo motor M2 (see FIG. 13). The servo motor M2 is configured to rotate a rotating body provided in the driven unit 4a of the medical instrument 4. The rotation of the rotating body of the driven unit 4a operates the end effector 4b.

[0026] The arm 60 is configured to be detachable from the arm base 50. The arm unit 61 and the translational movement mechanism unit 70 do not include any mechanism or device for holding the trocar T. As a result, the space near the body surface S of the patient P on which multiple trocars T are placed is increased, making it easier to perform work near the body surface S of the patient P on which multiple trocars T are placed.

[0027] The arm unit 61 is composed of a seven-axis articulated robot arm. The arm unit 61 also includes a base unit 62 for attaching the arm unit 61 to the arm base 50, and a plurality of link units 63 connected to the base unit 62. The plurality of link units 63 are connected to each other by joint units 64.

[0028] The translational movement mechanism 70 is configured to translate the holder 71 along the Z direction, thereby translating the medical instrument 4 attached to the holder 71 along the Z direction (the direction in which the shaft 4c extends). Specifically, the translational movement mechanism 70 includes a base-end link portion 72 connected to the tip of the arm portion 61, a tip-end link portion 73, and a connecting link portion 74 provided between the base-end link portion 72 and the tip-end link portion 73. The holder 71 is provided on the tip-end link portion 73.

[0029] The connecting link portion 74 of the translational movement mechanism 70 is configured as a speed-doubling mechanism that moves the distal link portion 73 along the Z direction relative to the proximal link portion 72. The distal link portion 73 is moved along the Z direction relative to the proximal link portion 72, thereby causing the medical instrument 4 provided in the holder 71 to translate along the Z direction. The distal end of the arm portion 61 is connected to the proximal link portion 72 so as to rotate the proximal link portion 72 about an axis in the Y direction perpendicular to the Z direction.

[0030] 4, the medical manipulator 1 is attached to the arm 60 and includes an operation unit 80 for operating the arm 60. The operation unit 80 includes an enable switch 81, a joystick 82, and a switch unit 83. The enable switch 81 permits or prohibits movement of the arm 60 by the joystick 82 and the switch unit 83. When an operator (such as a nurse or an assistant) holds and presses the operation unit 80, the enable switch 81 enters a state in which movement of the medical instrument 4 by the arm 60 is permitted.

[0031] Specifically, the enable switch 81 is configured as a push button switch that is pressed by the operator's finger. Pressing the enable switch 81 enables control of energizing the servo motors M1 to M3 (control of driving the servo motors M1 to M3). In other words, control of moving the arm 60 is possible only while the enable switch 81 is pressed.

[0032] As shown in Fig. 6, the joystick 82 is configured to be operated by tilting it with the operator's finger. The arm 60 is controlled to move depending on the direction and angle at which the joystick 82 is tilted. The operator places their finger on the tip 82a of the joystick 82 and moves their finger to tilt the joystick 82. Only while the enable switch 81 is pressed down is an input signal received when the joystick 82 is operated. In other words, when the enable switch 81 is not pressed down, the arm 60 will not move even if the joystick 82 is operated.

[0033] The enable switch 81 is provided on the outer peripheral surface 80a of the operating unit 80, and is configured so that when an operator grips the outer peripheral surface 80a of the operating unit 80 and presses the enable switch 81, movement of the medical instrument 4 by the arm 60 is permitted. As shown in FIG. 5 , a pair of enable switches 81 are provided on both sides of the outer peripheral surface 80a of the operating unit 80. The enable switches 81 are provided on both sides of the outer peripheral surface 80a of the operating unit 80 on which the switch unit 83 is provided. Specifically, the cross section of the operating unit 80 has a substantially rectangular shape, and the enable switch 81 and the switch unit 83 are provided on opposing surfaces 80b of the operating unit 80. More specifically, the operating unit 80 has a substantially prismatic shape, and the enable switch 81 and the switch unit 83 are provided on the side surface (surface 80b along the longitudinal direction) of the substantially prismatic operating unit 80. Then, the operator grasps the outer surface 80a of the operating unit 80 and presses at least one of the enable switches 81 provided on both sides of the outer surface 80a of the operating unit 80, thereby allowing movement of the arm 60.

[0034] The operation unit 80 of this embodiment is configured so that the movement of the arm 60 is permitted by pressing only one of the enable switches 81 provided on both sides of the outer circumferential surface 80a of the operation unit 80. This reduces the burden on the operator and improves convenience for the operator, as it is not necessary to press both of the enable switches 81 provided on both sides of the outer circumferential surface 80a of the operation unit 80.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 4 , the joystick 82 is provided on an end surface 80c that intersects with the outer peripheral surface 80a of the operation unit 80. The joystick 82 can be operated by the operator's fingers when the operator grips the outer peripheral surface 80a of the operation unit 80 and presses down the enable switch 81 to allow movement of the arm 60. For example, as shown in FIG. 6 , the operator presses down a pair of enable switches 81 provided on the outer peripheral surface 80a of the operation unit 80 with the operator's thumb and middle finger, and then operates the joystick 82 provided on the end surface 80c of the operation unit 80 with the operator's index finger. This makes it easy to maintain a substantially constant distance between the operator's thumb and middle finger gripping the operation unit 80 and the index finger operating the joystick 82. The fingers that operate the enable switch 81 and the joystick 82 are not limited to those described above.

[0036] The joystick 82 is configured to control the movement of the medical instrument 4 by the arm 60 so that the tip 4d of the medical instrument 4 (see FIG. 3) moves on a predetermined plane. The operating unit 80 also includes a switch unit 83 for controlling the movement of the medical instrument 4 by the arm 60 so that the tip 4d of the medical instrument 4 moves along the longitudinal direction of the medical instrument 4, which is perpendicular to the predetermined plane. The predetermined plane along which the tip 4d of the medical instrument 4 moves is a plane parallel to the end face 80c of the operating unit 80 (the XY plane in FIG. 4). The longitudinal direction of the medical instrument 4, which is perpendicular to the predetermined plane, is the Z direction, which is perpendicular to the XY plane in FIG. 4. The coordinates represented by the X, Y, and Z axes in FIG. 4 are called a tool coordinate system (or a base coordinate system). When the switch unit 83 is pressed while the enable switch 81 is pressed (a state in which movement of the medical instrument 4 by the arm 60 is permitted), the tip 4d of the medical instrument 4 moves along the longitudinal direction of the medical instrument 4.

[0037] The switch unit 83 also includes a switch unit 83a that moves the tip 4d of the medical instrument 4 in the direction along the longitudinal direction of the medical instrument 4, in which the medical instrument 4 is inserted into the patient P, and a switch unit 83b that moves the tip 4d of the medical instrument 4 in the opposite direction to the direction in which the medical instrument 4 is inserted into the patient P. Both the switch unit 83a and the switch unit 83b are configured as push button switches.

[0038] 5, the switch unit 83 is provided on both sides of the outer peripheral surface 80a of the operation unit 80. Specifically, the switch unit 83 is provided on each of both side surfaces (surfaces 80b along the longitudinal direction) of the substantially prismatic operation unit 80. In other words, the switch unit 83a and the switch unit 83b are both provided in pairs on both side surfaces of the operation unit 80.

[0039] Furthermore, by operating the switch unit 83, the arm unit 61 is moved, thereby causing the distal end 4d of the medical instrument 4 to translate until the distal end 4d of the medical instrument 4 moves near the pivot position PP (see FIG. 12 ), and after the distal end 4d of the medical instrument 4 moves near the pivot position PP, the translational movement mechanism 70 is moved, thereby causing the distal end 4d of the medical instrument 4 to translate. Specifically, by operating the switch unit 83, the arm unit 61 is moved, thereby causing the distal end 4d of the medical instrument 4 to translate until the distal end 4d of the medical instrument 4 moves a predetermined distance from the pivot position PP. Then, after the distal end 4d of the medical instrument 4 moves a predetermined distance from the pivot position PP, the translational movement mechanism 70 is moved, thereby causing the distal end 4d of the medical instrument 4 to translate. In other words, after the distal end 4d of the medical instrument 4 moves a predetermined distance from the pivot position PP, the arm unit 61 is not moved, and only the translational movement mechanism 70 is moved. The pivot position PP will be described later.

[0040] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the operating unit 80 includes a pivot button 85 that teaches a pivot position PP, which serves as a fulcrum (see FIG. 12) for the movement of the medical instrument 4 attached to the arm 60. The pivot button 85 is provided on a surface 80b of the operating unit 80 adjacent to the enable switch 81. As shown in FIG. 9, when the arm 60 is operated by the operating unit 80, the distal end of the endoscope 6 (see FIG. 7) or the pivot position teaching instrument 7 (see FIG. 8) attached to the distal end side of the arm 60 is moved to a position corresponding to the insertion position of the trocar T inserted into the body surface S of the patient P. In this state, the pivot position PP is taught by pressing the pivot button 85, and is stored in the memory unit 32. Note that when teaching the pivot position PP, the pivot position PP is set as a single point (coordinates), and teaching the pivot position PP does not set the direction of the medical instrument 4. The pivot button 85 is an example of the "pivot position teaching button" in the claims.

[0041] As shown in Fig. 7, the endoscope 6 attached to the distal end of the arm 60 when teaching the pivot position PP is the endoscope 6 that will actually be used during surgery. On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 8, the pivot position teaching instrument 7 attached to the distal end of the arm 60 when teaching the pivot position PP is a dummy that imitates a medical instrument 4 (such as forceps) that will actually be used during surgery. The pivot position teaching instrument 7 includes a portion 7a that imitates the driven unit 4a and a portion 7b that imitates the shaft 4c. The distal end of the pivot position teaching instrument 7 (portion 7b) does not have a sharp shape.

[0042] 9, in this embodiment, the pivot position PP is taught by pressing the pivot button 85 in a state where the tip of the endoscope 6 or the pivot position teaching instrument 7 attached to the tip side of the arm 60 is moved to a position where the outer surface TS of the trocar T inserted into the body surface S of the patient P comes into contact with the body surface S. That is, the pivot position PP is taught in a state where the tip of the endoscope 6 or the pivot position teaching instrument 7 is positioned to the side of the outer surface TS of the trocar T and in the vicinity of the body surface S without being inserted into the trocar T. In addition, the vicinity of the body surface S is a concept that includes the body surface S itself and the surroundings of the body surface S (such as a position slightly inside the body from the body surface S).

[0043] Furthermore, in this embodiment, by operating the joystick 82, the tip of the endoscope 6 or the pivot position teaching instrument 7 attached to the tip side of the arm 60 is moved to a position corresponding to the insertion position of the trocar T inserted into the body surface S of the patient P. Specifically, by operating the joystick 82 and the switch unit 83 while the enable switch 81 is pressed, the tip of the endoscope 6 or the pivot position teaching instrument 7 is moved.

[0044] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1 , an endoscope 6 is attached to one arm 60 (for example, arm 60b) of the multiple arms 60, and medical instruments 4 other than the endoscope 6 are attached to the remaining arms 60 (for example, arms 60a, 60c, and 60d). Specifically, in surgery, an endoscope 6 is attached to one arm 60 of the four arms 60, and medical instruments 4 other than the endoscope 6 (such as forceps) are attached to three of the arms 60. Then, a pivot position PP is taught to the arm 60 to which the endoscope 6 is attached, with the endoscope 6 attached. Furthermore, a pivot position PP is taught to the arm 60 to which the medical instrument 4 other than the endoscope 6 is attached, with the pivot position teaching instrument 7 attached. The endoscope 6 is attached to one of the two arms 60 (arms 60b and 60c) arranged in the middle of the four arms 60 arranged adjacent to each other.

[0045] 5, in this embodiment, the pivot buttons 85 are provided on both sides of the outer peripheral surface 80a of the operation unit 80. Specifically, the cross section of the operation unit 80 has a substantially rectangular shape, and the pivot buttons 85 are provided on opposing surfaces 80b of the operation unit 80, respectively.

[0046] In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 10, a display unit 33a is provided that displays that the pivot positions PP of the multiple arms 60 have been taught. The display unit 33a is provided in the input device 33 of the medical cart 3. The display unit 33a is configured, for example, with a liquid crystal panel. The display unit 33a displays numbers (1, 2, 3, and 4) corresponding to the multiple arms 60 (60a, 60b, 60c, and 60d). The display unit 33a also displays the type of medical instrument 4 (endoscope, forceps, etc.) attached to each of the multiple arms 60. When the pivot position PP has been taught, a check mark CM is displayed on each of the multiple arms 60.

[0047] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the medical manipulator 1 is configured so that a position finely adjusted from the tip positions of the endoscope 6 and the pivot position teaching instrument 7 is taught as the pivot position PP. For example, since the tip positions of the endoscope 6 and the pivot position teaching instrument 7 are positions that abut against the body surface S, a position finely adjusted by a preset distance in the thickness direction of the abdominal wall is taught as the pivot position PP.

[0048] 4, an adjustment button 86 for optimizing the position of the arm 60 is provided on the surface 80b of the operation unit 80. After the pivot position PP for the arm 60 to which the endoscope 6 is attached is taught, the position of the other arm 60 (arm base 50) is optimized by pressing the adjustment button 86.

[0049] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the operation unit 80 includes a mode switching button 84 that switches between a mode for translating (see FIG. 11) and a mode for rotating (see FIG. 12) the medical instrument 4 attached to the arm 60. In the operation unit 80, the mode switching button 84 is disposed near the joystick 82. Specifically, the mode switching button 84 is disposed adjacent to the joystick 82 on the end surface 80c of the operation unit 80. The mode switching button 84 is a push button switch. A mode indicator 84a is disposed near the mode switching button 84. The mode indicator 84a indicates the switched mode. Specifically, the current mode (translational movement mode or rotational movement mode) is displayed by the mode indicator 84a being lit (rotational movement mode) or extinguished (translational movement mode). The mode switching button 84 is an example of a "mode switching unit" in the claims. The mode indicator 84a is an example of a "pivot position indicator" in the claims.

[0050] In this embodiment, the mode indicator 84a also serves as a pivot position indicator that indicates that the pivot position PP has been taught. Specifically, when the pivot position PP has been taught, the mode indicator 84a remains lit and does not turn off even when the mode switching button 84 is pressed. This indicates that only the rotational movement mode is available for the medical instrument 4 attached to the arm 60 and that this has been taught. To reset the pivot position PP, remove the medical instrument 4 attached to the arm 60 that you wish to reset, and press and hold the pivot button 85.

[0051] As shown in Fig. 11, in the mode in which the arm 60 is translated, the arm 60 is moved so that the tip 4d of the medical instrument 4 moves on the XY plane. Also, as shown in Fig. 12, in the mode in which the arm 60 is rotationally moved, when the pivot position PP has not been taught, the arm 60 is moved so that the medical instrument 4 rotates around the end effector 4b, and when the pivot position PP has been taught, the arm 60 is moved so that the medical instrument 4 rotates around the pivot position PP as a fulcrum. Note that the medical instrument 4 is rotated with the shaft 4c of the medical instrument 4 inserted into the trocar T.

[0052] 3, the operating unit 80 is provided on the translational movement mechanism 70. The operating unit 80 is attached to the translational movement mechanism 70 so as to be adjacent to the medical instrument 4 attached to the translational movement mechanism 70. Specifically, the operating unit 80 is attached to the distal link portion 73 of the translational movement mechanism 70. The operating unit 80 is disposed so as to be adjacent to the driven unit 4a of the medical instrument 4.

[0053] 13, the arm 60 is provided with a plurality of servo motors M1, an encoder E1, and a reducer (not shown) so as to correspond to the plurality of joints 64 of the arm section 61. The encoder E1 is configured to detect the rotation angle of the servo motor M1. The reducer is configured to reduce the rotation speed of the servo motor M1 to increase the torque.

[0054] 13, the translational movement mechanism 70 is provided with a servo motor M2 for rotating a rotor provided in the driven unit 4a of the medical instrument 4, a servo motor M3 for translationally moving the medical instrument 4, encoders E2 and E3, and a reducer (not shown). The encoders E2 and E3 are configured to detect the rotation angles of the servo motors M2 and M3, respectively. The reducers are configured to decelerate the rotation of the servo motors M2 and M3 to increase the torque.

[0055] The positioner 40 is also provided with a plurality of servo motors M4, an encoder E4, and a reducer (not shown) to correspond to the plurality of joints 43 of the positioner 40. The encoder E4 is configured to detect the rotation angle of the servo motor M4. The reducer is configured to reduce the rotation speed of the servo motor M4 to increase the torque.

[0056] The medical cart 3 is also provided with a servo motor M5, an encoder E5, and a reducer (not shown) that drive each of a plurality of front wheels (not shown) of the medical cart 3. The encoder E5 is configured to detect the rotation angle of the servo motor M5. The reducer is configured to decelerate the rotation of the servo motor M5 to increase the torque.

[0057] The control unit 31 of the medical cart 3 includes an arm control unit 31a that controls the movement of the multiple arms 60 based on commands, and a positioner control unit 31b that controls the movement of the positioner 40 and the drive of the front wheels (not shown) of the medical cart 3 based on commands. A servo control unit C1 that controls a servo motor M1 that drives the arm 60 is electrically connected to the arm control unit 31a. An encoder E1 that detects the rotation angle of the servo motor M1 is also electrically connected to the servo control unit C1.

[0058] The arm control unit 31a is also electrically connected to a servo control unit C2 for controlling a servo motor M2 for driving the medical instrument 4. The servo control unit C2 is also electrically connected to an encoder E2 for detecting the rotation angle of the servo motor M2. The arm control unit 31a is also electrically connected to a servo control unit C3 for controlling a servo motor M3 for translationally moving the translational movement mechanism 70. The servo control unit C3 is also electrically connected to an encoder E3 for detecting the rotation angle of the servo motor M3.

[0059] Then, the operation command input to the remote operation device 2 is input to the arm control unit 31a. The arm control unit 31a generates a position command based on the input operation command and the rotation angle detected by the encoder E1 (E2, E3), and outputs the position command to the servo control unit C1 (C2, C2). The servo control unit C1 (C2, C3) generates a torque command based on the position command input from the arm control unit 31a and the rotation angle detected by the encoder E1 (E2, E3), and outputs the torque command to the servo motor M1 (M2, M3). As a result, the arm 60 is moved in accordance with the operation command input to the remote operation device 2.

[0060] Furthermore, the control unit 31 (arm control unit 31a) is configured to operate the arm 60 based on an input signal from a joystick 82 of the operation unit 80. Specifically, the arm control unit 31a generates a position command based on the input signal (operation command) input from the joystick 82 and the rotation angle detected by the encoder E1, and outputs the position command to the servo control unit C1. The servo control unit C1 generates a torque command based on the position command input from the arm control unit 31a and the rotation angle detected by the encoder E1, and outputs the torque command to the servo motor M1. As a result, the arm 60 is moved in accordance with the operation command input to the joystick 82.

[0061] The control unit 31 (arm control unit 31a) is configured to operate the arm 60 based on an input signal from a switch unit 83 of the operation unit 80. Specifically, the arm control unit 31a generates a position command based on the input signal (operation command) input from the switch unit 83 and the rotation angle detected by the encoder E1 or E3, and outputs the position command to the servo control unit C1 or C3. The servo control unit C1 or C3 generates a torque command based on the position command input from the arm control unit 31a and the rotation angle detected by the encoder E1 or E3, and outputs the torque command to the servo motor M1 or M3. As a result, the arm 60 is moved in accordance with the operation command input to the switch unit 83.

[0062] Furthermore, the control unit 31 (arm control unit 31a) is configured to perform control to reduce changes in the movement speed of the arm 60 by performing at least one of setting an upper limit value for the input signal from the joystick 82 and smoothing the input signal from the joystick 82. Specifically, the control unit 31 sets an upper limit value for the input signal from the joystick 82, and when an input signal exceeding the upper limit value is input, the control unit 31 controls the movement of the arm 60 using the upper limit value as the input signal. Furthermore, the control unit 31 smoothes the input signal from the joystick 82, for example, using an LPF (Low-pass filter). Note that in this embodiment, the control unit 31 both sets an upper limit value for the input signal from the joystick 82 and smooths the input signal from the joystick 82.

[0063] Specifically, the control unit 31 (arm control unit 31a) controls the movement of the arm 60 based on the equation of motion for control shown in Equation 1 below.

number

[0064] 13, the positioner control unit 31b is electrically connected to a servo control unit C4 for controlling a servo motor M4 that moves the positioner 40. The servo control unit C4 is also electrically connected to an encoder E4 for detecting the rotation angle of the servo motor M4. The positioner control unit 31b is also electrically connected to a servo control unit C5 for controlling a servo motor M5 that drives the front wheels (not shown) of the medical cart 3. The servo control unit C5 is also electrically connected to an encoder E5 for detecting the rotation angle of the servo motor M5.

[0065] Furthermore, an operation command related to setting a standby position or the like is input from the input device 33 to the positioner control unit 31b. The positioner control unit 31b generates a position command based on the operation command input from the input device 33 and the rotation angle detected by the encoder E4, and outputs the position command to the servo control unit C4. The servo control unit C4 generates a torque command based on the position command input from the positioner control unit 31b and the rotation angle detected by the encoder E4, and outputs the torque command to the servo motor M4. This causes the positioner 40 to move in accordance with the operation command input to the input device 33. Similarly, the positioner control unit 31b moves the medical cart 3 based on the operation command from the input device 33.

[0066] Next, a pivot position setting method using the medical manipulator 1 (a pivot position teaching method for the medical manipulator 1) will be described. An endoscope 6 is attached to one of the multiple (four) arms 60, and a pivot position teaching instrument 7 is attached to the other arms 60. The display unit 33a displays "endoscope" below the number corresponding to the arm 60 to which the endoscope 6 is attached (number 2 in FIG. 10), and displays "forceps" below the numbers corresponding to the arms 60 to which medical instruments 4 other than the endoscope 6 (for example, forceps) are attached (numbers 1, 3, and 4 in FIG. 10). A trocar T is inserted into the body surface S of the patient P.

[0067] First, in step S1 (see FIG. 15), as shown in FIG. 9, the arm 60 is operated by the operating unit 80 to move the tip of the endoscope 6 or pivot position teaching instrument 7 as the medical instrument 4 attached to the tip side of the arm 60 to a position corresponding to the insertion position of the trocar T inserted into the body surface S of the patient P. Specifically, first, the arm 60 to which the endoscope 6 is attached is operated to move the tip of the endoscope 6 to a position corresponding to the insertion position of the trocar T inserted into the body surface S of the patient P. In particular, the tip of the endoscope 6 is moved to a position where the outer surface TS of the trocar T inserted into the body surface S of the patient P comes into contact with the body surface S.

[0068] Next, in step S2 (see FIG. 15), the pivot button 85 is pressed (an instruction to teach the pivot position PP is accepted) with the tip of the endoscope 6 having been moved to a position corresponding to the insertion position of the trocar T. This causes the medical manipulator 1 to set the pivot position PP, which serves as a fulcrum for the movement of the endoscope 6 attached to the arm 60. Here, a position finely adjusted by a preset distance in the thickness direction of the abdominal wall with respect to the position of the tip of the endoscope 6 that has been moved to a position corresponding to the insertion position of the trocar T, is set as the pivot position PP.

[0069] Next, in step S3 (see FIG. 15), the medical manipulator 1 displays on the display unit 33a that the pivot positions PP of the multiple arms 60 have been set. Specifically, a check mark CM is displayed below the number (number 2 in FIG. 10) corresponding to the arm 60 to which the endoscope 6 is attached.

[0070] Next, in step S4 (see FIG. 15), the medical manipulator 1 displays on the mode indicator 84a of the operation unit 80 that the pivot position PP has been taught. Specifically, the mode indicator 84a of the operation unit 80 attached to the arm 60 to which the endoscope 6 is attached lights up. Note that the order of steps S3 and S4 may be reversed.

[0071] As described above, in this embodiment, the medical manipulator 1 first sets the pivot position PP for one arm 60 to which the endoscope 6 is attached out of the multiple arms 60. Thereafter, by repeating the above steps S1 to S5, the medical manipulator 1 sequentially sets the pivot positions PP for the remaining arms 60 to which the pivot position teaching instruments 7 are attached out of the multiple arms 60.

[0072] Next, a procedure for a treatment using the medical manipulator 1 will be described. In a treatment using the medical manipulator 1, first, the operator moves the medical cart 3 to a predetermined position in the operating room. Next, the operator operates the touch panel included in the input device 33 to move the arm base 50 by operating the positioner 40 so that the arm base 50 and the operating table 5 or the patient P have a desired positional relationship. The arm 60 is also moved so that a trocar T (an operation channel for inserting a surgical instrument or the like into a body cavity) placed on the body surface of the patient P and the medical instrument 4 have a predetermined positional relationship. The operator also operates the joystick 82 and the switch unit 83 to move the multiple arms 60 to desired positions. Then, the pivot position PP is set (taught) as described above. Then, with the positioner 40 stationary, the multiple arms 60 and the medical instrument 4 are operated based on commands from the remote control device 2. In this way, a treatment is performed using the medical manipulator 1.

[0073] [Effects of this embodiment] In this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0074] (Effects of surgical robots) In this embodiment, as described above, the medical manipulator 1 is configured such that, by operating the arm 60 with the operating unit 80, the tip of the medical instrument 4 (endoscope 6 or pivot position teaching instrument 7) attached to the tip side of the arm 60 is moved to a position corresponding to the insertion position of the trocar T inserted into the body surface S of the patient P, and the pivot button 85 is pressed in this state to teach the pivot position PP. In this way, because the pivot position PP is taught by pressing the pivot button 85, there is no need to provide an instrument to support the trocar T in order to teach (set) the pivot position PP. As a result, compared to when the pivot position PP is determined mechanically, work can be performed more easily near the body surface S of the patient P where multiple trocars T are placed.

[0075] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the operating unit 80 of the medical manipulator 1 is operated to move the tip of the endoscope 6 or the pivot position teaching instrument 7 attached to the tip side of the arm 60 to a position where the outer surface TS of the trocar T inserted into the body surface S of the patient P comes into contact with the body surface S, and the pivot button 85 is pressed in this state to teach the pivot position PP. As a result, unlike when the pivot position PP is taught while the tip of the endoscope 6 or the pivot position teaching instrument 7 is positioned inside the trocar T, the tip of the endoscope 6 or the pivot position teaching instrument 7 can be visually confirmed when teaching the pivot position PP, and therefore the pivot position PP can be taught appropriately.

[0076] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, a plurality of arms 60 are provided, one of the plurality of arms 60 has an endoscope 6 attached thereto, and at least one remaining arm 60 has a medical instrument 4 other than the endoscope 6 attached thereto, and the medical manipulator 1 teaches the pivot position PP to the arm 60 to which the endoscope 6 is attached, with the pivot position teaching instrument 7 or a medical instrument 4 other than the endoscope 6 attached thereto. In this way, the pivot position PP is taught in accordance with the type of medical instrument 4 actually attached to the arm 60, and therefore the pivot position PP can be taught appropriately.

[0077] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the medical manipulator 1 includes the arm base 50 to which the multiple arms 60 are attached, and the positioner 40 that moves the arm base 50. This allows the multiple arms 60 attached to the arm base 50 to be moved collectively to a desired position by the positioner 40, making it easy to control the movement of the multiple arms 60.

[0078] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the medical manipulator 1 includes the display unit 33a that displays that the pivot positions PP have been taught for the multiple arms 60. This allows the operator to easily confirm whether the pivot positions PP have been taught for the multiple arms 60 by visually checking the display unit 33a.

[0079] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the pivot button 85 is provided on both sides of the outer peripheral surface 80a of the operation unit 80. This improves the convenience of operating the pivot button 85, unlike when the pivot button 85 is provided on only one side of the outer peripheral surface 80a of the operation unit 80.

[0080] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the operation unit 80 includes the mode indicator 84a that indicates that the pivot position PP has been taught. This allows the operator to easily check whether or not the pivot position PP has been taught for the arm 60 by visually checking the mode indicator 84a. Furthermore, because the mode indicator 84a is provided on the operation unit 80, the operator can check whether or not the pivot position PP has been taught for the arm 60 while operating the operation unit 80.

[0081] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the operation unit 80 includes the mode switching button 84 that switches between a mode in which the medical instrument 4 attached to the arm 60 is translated and a mode in which the medical instrument 4 is rotated, and the mode indicator 84a that displays the switched mode, and the mode indicator 84a also serves as a pivot position indicator that displays that the pivot position PP has been taught. This simplifies the configuration of the medical manipulator 1, unlike when the mode indicator 84a and the pivot position indicator that displays that the pivot position PP has been taught are separately provided.

[0082] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the operating unit 80 includes the joystick 82 for operating the movement of the medical instrument 4 by the arm 60, and is configured so that, by operating the joystick 82, the tip of the medical instrument 4 (endoscope 6 or pivot position teaching instrument 7) attached to the tip side of the arm 60 is moved to a position corresponding to the insertion position of the trocar T inserted into the body surface S of the patient P. This allows the operator to easily move the endoscope 6 or the pivot position teaching instrument 7 using the joystick 82.

[0083] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the medical manipulator 1 is configured so that the pivot position PP is taught as a position obtained by finely adjusting the tip position of the medical instrument 4, which is in contact with the body surface S of the patient P, by a preset distance in the thickness direction of the abdominal wall. This makes it possible to appropriately set the pivot position PP within the abdominal wall of the patient P.

[0084] (Effect of pivot position setting method) Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the pivot position setting method includes a step of pressing the pivot button 85 (accepting an instruction to teach the pivot position PP) in a state in which the tip of the endoscope 6 or the pivot position teaching instrument 7 has been moved to a position corresponding to the insertion position of the trocar T, thereby causing the medical manipulator 1 to set a pivot position PP that serves as a fulcrum for the movement of the medical instrument 4 attached to the arm 60. In this way, the pivot position PP is taught by pressing the pivot button 85, so there is no need to provide an instrument to support the trocar T in order to teach (set) the pivot position PP. As a result, compared to when the pivot position PP is mechanically determined, work can be performed more easily near the body surface S of the patient P on which multiple trocars T are placed.

[0085] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the step of setting the pivot position PP includes a step in which the medical manipulator 1 sets the pivot position PP by pressing the pivot button 85 in a state in which the tip of the endoscope 6 or the pivot position teaching instrument 7 attached to the tip side of the arm 60 is moved to a position where the outer surface TS of the trocar T inserted into the body surface S of the patient P comes into contact with the body surface S. As a result, unlike when the pivot position PP is taught while the tip of the endoscope 6 or the pivot position teaching instrument 7 is positioned inside the trocar T, the tip of the endoscope 6 or the pivot position teaching instrument 7 can be seen when teaching the pivot position PP, and therefore the pivot position PP can be taught appropriately.

[0086] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the step of setting the pivot position PP includes a step in which the medical manipulator 1 first sets the pivot position PP for one arm 60 of the multiple arms 60 to which the endoscope 6 is attached, and then sets the pivot position PP for the remaining arms 60 of the multiple arms 60 to which a medical instrument 4 (pivot position teaching instrument 7) other than the endoscope 6 is attached as a medical instrument 4. This makes it possible to set the pivot position PP for the pivot position teaching instrument 7 to be attached later, using the endoscope 6 attached first to the arm 60 as a reference, and therefore makes it possible to appropriately set the relative positional relationship between the pivot position PP of the endoscope 6 and the pivot position PP of the pivot position teaching instrument 7 (medical instrument 4).

[0087] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the pivot position setting method includes a step in which the medical manipulator 1 displays on the display unit 33a that the pivot positions PP have been set for the multiple arms 60. This allows the operator to easily confirm whether the pivot positions PP have been taught to the multiple arms 60 by visually checking the display unit 33a.

[0088] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the pivot position setting method includes a step in which the medical manipulator 1 displays on the mode indicator 84a of the operation unit 80 that the pivot position PP has been taught. This allows the operator to easily confirm whether or not the pivot position PP has been taught for the arm 60 by visually checking the mode indicator 84a. Furthermore, since the mode indicator 84a is provided on the operation unit 80, the operator can confirm whether or not the pivot position PP has been taught for the arm 60 while operating the operation unit 80.

[0089] [Variations] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims rather than the description of the above embodiments, and further includes all modifications (variations) within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0090] For example, in the above embodiment, an example has been shown in which the movement of the arm 60 is permitted by pressing down one of the pair of enable switches 81 provided on both sides of the outer circumferential surface 80a of the operation unit 80, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which the movement of the arm 60 is permitted by pressing down both of the pair of enable switches 81 provided on both sides of the outer circumferential surface 80a of the operation unit 80.

[0091] In the above embodiment, the enable switch 81, the switch unit 83, and the pivot button 85 are provided in pairs on both sides of the outer circumferential surface 80a of the operation unit 80, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the enable switch 81, the switch unit 83, and the pivot button 85 may be provided as a single unit on one side of the outer circumferential surface 80a of the operation unit 80.

[0092] In the above embodiment, the operation unit 80 is attached to the translational movement mechanism 70, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the operation unit 80 may be attached to the arm 61.

[0093] In the above embodiment, the joystick 82 is configured to operate the movement of the arm 60 within a plane, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the joystick 82 may be configured to operate the movement of the arm 60 along an axis perpendicular to the plane, in addition to operating the movement of the arm 60 within the plane.

[0094] In the above embodiment, after the distal end 4d of the medical instrument 4 has moved a predetermined distance from the pivot position PP, the translational movement mechanism 70 is moved to translate the distal end 4d of the medical instrument 4. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, after the distal end 4d of the medical instrument 4 reaches the pivot position PP, the translational movement mechanism 70 may be moved to translate the distal end 4d of the medical instrument 4.

[0095] In the above embodiment, the control unit 30 both sets an upper limit on the input signal from the joystick 82 and smooths the input signal from the joystick 82, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the control unit 30 may perform only one of setting an upper limit on the input signal from the joystick 82 and smoothing the input signal from the joystick 82.

[0096] In the above embodiment, the pivot position PP is taught in a state where the tip of the endoscope 6 or the pivot position teaching instrument 7 is moved to a position where the outer surface TS of the trocar T contacts the body surface S, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the pivot position PP may be taught in a state where the tip of the endoscope 6 or the pivot position teaching instrument 7 is inserted into the trocar T.

[0097] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example in which four arms 60 are provided is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. The number of arms 60 may be three.

[0098] In the above embodiment, the arm unit 61 and the positioner 40 are configured as a seven-axis articulated robot, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the arm 60 and the positioner 40 may be configured as an articulated robot with an axis configuration other than a seven-axis articulated robot (for example, six axes or eight axes).

[0099] In the above embodiment, the fact that the pivot position PP has been taught is displayed on the display unit 33a and the mode indicator 84a, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the fact that the pivot position PP has been taught may be displayed on only one of the display unit 33a and the mode indicator 84a.

[0100] In the above embodiment, the mode indicator 84a also serves as a pivot position indicator that indicates that the pivot position PP has been taught, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the mode indicator 84a and a pivot position indicator that indicates that the pivot position PP has been taught may be provided separately.

[0101] In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which a finely adjusted position of the tip of the endoscope 6 or the pivot position teaching instrument 7 was taught as the pivot position PP, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the tip position of the endoscope 6 or the pivot position teaching instrument 7 that is not finely adjusted may also be taught as the pivot position PP.

[0102] In the above embodiment, the pivot position PP is taught using the pivot position teaching tool 7, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the pivot position PP may be taught using forceps that are actually used instead of the pivot position teaching tool 7. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] 1. Medical manipulators (surgical support robots) 4 Medical equipment 6 Endoscopy 7 Pivot position teaching tool 33a Display section 40 Positioner (arm base moving part) 50 Arm Base 60 Arm 80 Control section 80a Outer surface 82 Joystick 84 Mode switch button (mode switch section) 84a Mode indicator (pivot position indicator) 85 Pivot button (pivot position teaching button) P patient PP pivot position S (patient's) body surface T trocar TS (trocar) outer surface

Claims

1. A surgical system comprising: a medical manipulator including an arm to which a medical instrument is attached at a distal end thereof and an operation unit provided on the arm for operating the arm; a control device; and a storage device, The medical instrument is used by being inserted into the patient's body through a trocar inserted into the patient's body surface; the operation unit includes a pivot position instruction input unit that stores in the storage device a pivot position that serves as a fulcrum for movement of the medical instrument attached to the arm, a control device configured to store, in the memory device, as the pivot position, the tip position of the medical instrument or a position within the patient's abdominal wall moved from the tip position in the thickness direction of the abdominal wall, when the pivot position teaching input unit is operated.

2. The surgical system according to claim 1 , wherein the medical manipulator includes a display unit that displays that the pivot position of the arm has been stored in the memory device.

3. The surgical system according to claim 1 , wherein the pivot position instruction input unit is provided on both sides of the operation unit.

4. The surgical system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the operation unit includes a pivot position indicator that indicates that the pivot position has been stored in the storage device.

5. the operation unit includes a joystick for operating the movement of the medical instrument by the arm, The surgical system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control device is configured to control the arm so that the medical instrument moves in accordance with operation of the joystick.

6. the medical instrument comprises an end effector, a driven unit attached to the arm, and a shaft connecting the end effector and the driven unit; The surgical system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the operating unit comprises: a mode switching unit that switches between a mode for translating the medical instrument along the longitudinal direction of the shaft and a mode for rotating the medical instrument; and a mode indicator that displays the switched mode.

7. The surgical system according to claim 6, wherein in a mode for rotating the medical instrument, when the pivot position is not taught, the arm is moved so that the medical instrument rotates around the end effector, and when the pivot position is taught, the arm is moved so that the medical instrument rotates around the pivot position as a fulcrum.

8. the medical instrument comprises an end effector, a driven unit attached to the arm, and a shaft connecting the end effector and the driven unit; The surgical system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the operating unit includes a switch unit for operating the arm so that the tip of the medical instrument moves along the longitudinal direction of the shaft.

9. the arm includes an arm section configured of an articulated robot, and a translational movement mechanism section provided at the distal end of the arm section, to which the medical instrument is attached, and which translates the medical instrument in a direction of insertion into the patient; The surgical system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the operation unit is provided in the translational movement mechanism.

10. The surgical system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the arm does not include a mechanism for holding the trocar inserted into the body surface of the patient.

11. A surgical system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein when a pivot position is set for a medical instrument other than an endoscope as the medical instrument, a pivot position teaching instrument is attached to the arm instead of the medical instrument other than an endoscope.

12. A surgical operation system comprising: a medical manipulator including a first arm having a first medical instrument attached to a distal end thereof, a second arm having a second medical instrument attached to a distal end thereof, a first operation unit provided on the first arm for operating the first arm, and a second operation unit provided on the second arm for operating the second arm; a control device; and a storage device, the first medical instrument and the second medical instrument are used by being inserted into the patient's body through a trocar inserted into the patient's body surface; the first operation unit includes a first pivot position instruction input unit configured to store in the storage device a first pivot position that serves as a fulcrum for movement of the first medical instrument attached to the first arm; the second operation unit includes a second pivot position instruction input unit configured to store in the storage device a second pivot position that serves as a fulcrum for movement of the second medical instrument attached to the second arm; The control device a first pivot position instruction input unit is operated to store a distal end position of the first medical instrument or a position in the abdominal wall of the patient moved from the distal end position in a thickness direction of the abdominal wall as the first pivot position in the storage device; a second pivot position instruction input unit configured to operate the second pivot position instruction input unit to store in the memory device the tip position of the second medical instrument or a position within the patient's abdominal wall moved from the tip position in the thickness direction of the abdominal wall as the second pivot position.

13. The medical manipulator comprises: an arm base to which the first arm and the second arm are attached; The surgical system according to claim 12, further comprising: an arm base movement unit that moves the arm base.

14. The surgical system according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the medical manipulator includes a display unit that displays that the first pivot position and the second pivot position have been stored in the storage device.

15. the first operating unit includes a first joystick for operating the movement of the first medical instrument by the first arm, the second operating unit includes a second joystick for operating the movement of the second medical instrument by the second arm, The surgical system according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the control device is configured to control the first arm so that the first medical instrument moves in accordance with operation of the first joystick, and to control the second arm so that the second medical instrument moves in accordance with operation of the second joystick.

16. the first arm includes a first arm section configured of an articulated robot, and a first translational movement mechanism section provided at a distal end of the first arm section, to which the first medical instrument is attached, and which translates the first medical instrument in a direction of insertion into the patient; The surgical operation system according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the first operation unit is provided in the first translational movement mechanism.

17. The surgical system according to any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein the first arm and the second arm do not include a mechanism for holding the trocar.

18. the medical manipulator includes a third arm having a third medical instrument attached to a distal end thereof, and a third operation unit provided on the third arm for operating the third arm; the third operation unit includes a third pivot position instruction input unit that stores in the storage device a third pivot position that serves as a fulcrum for movement of the third medical instrument attached to the third arm, The surgical system according to any one of claims 12 to 17, wherein the control device is configured to store, in the memory device, as the third pivot position, the tip position of the third medical instrument or a position within the patient's abdominal wall moved from the tip position in the thickness direction of the abdominal wall, when the third pivot position teaching input unit is operated.

19. An operating device for a surgical system, comprising: a medical manipulator including an arm to which a medical instrument is attached at its distal end; a control device; and a storage device, provided on the arm for operating the arm, a pivot position instruction input unit that stores a pivot position that serves as a fulcrum for movement of the medical instrument attached to the arm in the storage device; The medical instrument is used by being inserted into the patient's body through a trocar inserted into the patient's body surface; an operating device in which, by operating the pivot position instruction input unit, the control device stores, in the storage device, the tip position of the medical instrument or a position within the patient's abdominal wall moved from the tip position in the thickness direction of the abdominal wall as the pivot position.

20. A program for controlling a surgical system including a medical manipulator including an arm to which a medical instrument to be inserted into a patient's body via a trocar inserted into the patient's body surface is attached at its distal end, and an operation unit provided on the arm for operating the arm, a control device, and a storage device, the operation unit includes a pivot position instruction input unit that stores in the storage device a pivot position that serves as a fulcrum for movement of the medical instrument attached to the arm, The control device moving a tip of the medical instrument attached to the tip side of the arm to a position corresponding to an insertion position of a trocar inserted into the body surface of the patient; and storing, in the storage device, as the pivot position, the tip position of the medical instrument or a position within the abdominal wall of the patient moved from the tip position in the thickness direction of the abdominal wall, when the pivot position instruction input unit is operated.

Images