Hand Input Repositioning Reminders During Robotic Clutch Mode

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing computer-assisted robotic systems lack effective methods for assisting operators in repositioning input devices during clutch mode, where the control of imaging devices is decoupled from the motion of display units, leading to potential discomfort or inefficiency.

Innovation Solution

A computer-assisted robotic system with a control system that provides reminders to operators to reposition hand input devices based on predefined parameters, using visual, audible, or tactile cues, allowing for decoupled control modes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the control system decouples the imaging device from the display unit during clutch mode to allow operator repositioning, then operator flexibility and comfort are improved, but the operator may forget to reposition the hand input device leading to operational inefficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperator flexibilityVSAvoidoperational efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system monitors the position of the hand input device and provides feedback to the operator through a visual indicator when the device is in a position that may cause operational issues. This feedback mechanism reminds the operator to reposition the hand input device during clutch mode, ensuring both flexibility and operational efficiency are maintained.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Productivity

If the system provides continuous monitoring and reminders to the operator, then operational efficiency is improved, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system automatically monitors the position of the hand input device and generates reminders without requiring additional manual intervention or complex external monitoring systems. The system serves itself by detecting its own state and providing appropriate feedback, maintaining operational efficiency while minimizing added complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20260109043A1Method and apparatus for providing input device repositioning reminders
Publication Date: 2026.04.23 INTUITIVE SURGICAL OPERATIONS INC
  • US20260109043A1 patent drawing
  • US20260109043A1 patent drawing
  • US20260109043A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods are described herein for providing reminders with a computer-assisted robotic system. In one example, a robotic system comprises a hand input devices, one or more hand input sensor, and a control system. The hand input sensor is configured to sense hand inputs provided by a hand of the operator and to provide hand input signals indicative of the hand inputs. The control system is configured to, in a teleoperation mode, command motion of a tool based on the hand input signals. The control system is further configured to provide a reminder for the operator to reposition the hand input device based on parameters comprising (i) a change in a position or an orientation of a head of the operator and (ii) an amount of movement of the hand input device.