Robotic Surgery Workstation Height Adjustment From Hand Initialization
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Solution Overview
Problem
User fatigue occurs in robotic systems, such as surgical robotic systems, due to the need for extended operation of input devices, which can lead to discomfort and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for positioning an input device at an ergonomic height based on the user's initialization position, using a processor circuit to determine the vertical position of the hand controller and adjust the platform's height to ensure comfort, and allowing user preferences to be saved for future sessions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the input device is positioned at a fixed height, then the device structure is simple, but user fatigue occurs during extended operation
Solution Approach 1:
The platform is made vertically movable instead of fixed, allowing it to adjust to different user heights. The actuator enables dynamic repositioning of the input device while maintaining structural integrity, resolving the contradiction between fixed structure simplicity and user comfort during extended operation
Solution Approach 2:
The vertical position parameter of the platform is changed based on user input signals. The system measures the user's height and adjusts the platform's vertical position accordingly, transforming a static device into an adaptive one that eliminates user fatigue without requiring complete structural redesign
2Ease of operation
If the platform moves vertically to adjust height, then user comfort is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical adjustment system is replaced with an automated actuator system controlled by the processor. The actuator receives control signals based on user height measurements and automatically positions the platform, reducing the need for complex manual adjustment mechanisms while achieving ergonomic positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment by automatically measuring user height through input signals and positioning the platform accordingly without requiring manual intervention. This self-service capability reduces the complexity of user interaction while maintaining ergonomic benefits
Data Source
AI summary
A method for positioning an input device of a workstation for use by a seated user in controlling a robotic surgery system is disclosed. The input device is operable to generate input signals representing a position of a hand controller moveable within an input device workspace. The method involves determining a vertical position of the hand controller within the input device workspace for an input signal received from the input device while a seated user's hand is grasping the hand controller in an initialization position defined with respect to the user's body. The method also involves determining a user ergonomic height of the input device based on the vertical position of the hand controller at the initialization position, and causing a platform of the workstation on which the input device is mounted to move vertically with respect to a base of the workstation to position the input device at the ergonomic height.