3D Tissue Suturing Guidance for Robotic Needle Trajectories

The patent introduces an image-guided robotic system as an intermediary between the clinician's intent and the actual suturing execution. The system includes image capturing devices that acquire surgical site images, processing systems that generate needle trajectory guidance, and robotic tools that execute the suturing. This intermediary system reduces cognitive load by automatically calculating complex trajectories while providing visual guidance to the clinician.

The patent replaces manual mechanical suturing operations with a robotic system that uses image processing and computational algorithms. Instead of relying solely on the clinician's manual dexterity and cognitive judgment, the system uses computer vision to capture images, computational geometry to determine trajectories, and robotic actuation to execute precise needle insertions and suture placements.

The patent designs the robotic surgical system to perform multiple functions within a single integrated platform. The system includes image capturing devices that can acquire various types of imaging data, a processing system that performs multiple computational tasks (trajectory calculation, guidance generation, real-time monitoring), and a robotic manipulator that can execute different suturing operations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized devices.

The patent uses image capturing devices to create digital copies or representations of the physical surgical site. These images are processed to generate virtual needle trajectories that are then overlaid on the real surgical field for guidance. This copying approach allows the system to plan and visualize procedures without physical trial-and-error, reducing complexity compared to purely mechanical trial-based methods.