Gesture-Controlled Robotic Imaging System for Surgical Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current surgical imaging technologies, such as intraoperative x-ray imaging, require time-consuming and inaccurate positioning of imaging devices, leading to prolonged surgical procedures and increased exposure to x-rays.

Innovation Solution

A system utilizing a depth sensor and robotic arms to move imaging sources and detectors based on gestures, allowing for real-time adjustment and alignment within a working volume defined by a surgical plan, reducing the need for predefined locations and human interface controls.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional manual positioning methods are used for imaging devices, then the surgical procedure can be completed with simple equipment, but the positioning is time-consuming and inaccurate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoidpositioning time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with an automated robotic arm system that uses depth sensor data and gesture recognition to position imaging devices. The robotic arm receives control signals based on surgeon gestures, eliminating manual positioning and achieving both higher precision and faster operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables the surgeon to directly control imaging device positioning through natural gestures without requiring assistance from other medical personnel. The gesture recognition system translates surgeon intent into automated robotic arm movements, allowing the surgeon to self-manage the positioning process efficiently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If multiple medical personnel are used for device positioning and control, then manual operations can be performed, but the number of personnel required increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation simplicityVSAvoidnumber of personnel
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The robotic arm system automates the positioning and movement of imaging devices, replacing the need for multiple personnel to manually handle and position equipment. The system processes gestures and automatically executes positioning tasks that would otherwise require coordinated manual effort from several staff members.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The robotic arm performs multiple functions including positioning the imaging device, adjusting its orientation, and coordinating movement between different components. This multi-functional system consolidates tasks that would otherwise require multiple specialized personnel into a single automated platform.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If predefined locations are used for imaging devices, then device placement is simplified, but adaptability to different surgical needs is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning flexibilityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from static predefined positions to dynamic, real-time positioning based on surgeon gestures and surgical conditions. The robotic arm can adjust imaging device locations and orientations on-the-fly, providing adaptability while the underlying coordinate system and control algorithms manage the complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The gesture recognition system acts as an intermediary between the surgeon's intent and the robotic arm's actions. It translates natural gestures into precise control signals, allowing flexible positioning without requiring the surgeon to directly manage complex control parameters or predefine locations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS12011237B2System and method of gesture detection and device positioning
Publication Date: 2024.06.18 MAZOR ROBOTICS
  • US12011237B2 patent drawing
  • US12011237B2 patent drawing
  • US12011237B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure includes an imaging source; an imaging detector; a depth sensor; and a controller, where the controller receives image information from the depth sensor, determines a gesture in relation to a working volume, and moves the imaging source and the imaging detector relative to the working volume based on the gesture.