Handling Device Instrument Change with Active Indicator Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for connecting instruments to handling devices, such as medical robots, are error-prone, inflexible, and require complex setups, making it difficult to change instruments simply and safely.
Innovation Solution
A handling device with changeable indicator devices and activation elements controlled by a central device, using mechanical and electrical connecting elements, ensures correct instrument connection by activating indicators and activation devices based on schedules or user input, allowing for flexible and secure instrument changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If passive markings and work specifications are used for instrument connection, then instrument identification is possible, but the method is error-prone and not flexible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color-coded connecting elements (different colors for different instrument types) to provide visual identification and prevent incorrect connections. The control device can also activate indicator devices that change color or illuminate to guide instrument selection and connection, making the system both reliable and flexible.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device receives information from recognition devices that identify the instrument type and provides feedback by activating appropriate indicator devices. This closed-loop system ensures the correct instrument is selected and connected, improving reliability while maintaining flexibility through automated guidance.
2Reliability
If unambiguous interfaces with connection prevention mechanisms are provided, then incorrect connections are avoided, but the system is inflexible and has limited connection options
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal connecting elements that can accommodate multiple instrument types through a standardized interface. The control device manages the compatibility logic, allowing a single connecting element design to serve multiple functions while maintaining connection correctness through automated recognition and indication.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the state of indicator devices based on the instrument type being connected. Different instrument types trigger different indicator patterns, allowing the same physical interface to correctly connect various instruments while providing visual confirmation of compatibility.
3Extent of automation
If automatic tool change with magazine is implemented, then tool changes are automated, but the device complexity increases and is not suitable for medical robots
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the automation function from a complex magazine system and implements it through a control device that manages indicator devices and recognition devices. This approach achieves instrument change automation using simpler, more adaptable components suitable for medical robot constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device acts as an intermediary between the instrument holder, instruments, and user interface. It coordinates the instrument change process by activating appropriate indicators and receiving recognition information, achieving automation without requiring complex mechanical magazine systems.
4Ease of operation
If indicator devices are activated based on schedules or user input, then correct instrument selection is guided, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-service guidance by automatically activating indicator devices based on recognition device input and stored instrument data. The control device manages the logic autonomously, reducing the need for complex user intervention while maintaining ease of operation through intuitive visual feedback.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables simple, flexible, and error-free instrument changes in handling devices, improving operational efficiency and safety by ensuring correct instrument connections and reducing the complexity of instrument management.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one light source is arranged on the instrument and the at least one light source is illuminated in order to illuminate the at least one connecting element of the instrument
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3b
Figure 3c~4
AI summary
A handling device, which is in particular a robot, has a receiving apparatus (34) for receiving different instruments (38, 40, 42). To this end, the receiving apparatus (34) and the different instruments (38, 40, 42) have mutually compatible connecting elements (14, 16). In order to ensure error-free connection of the correctly selected instrument (38, 40, 42) to the receiving apparatus (34), the instruments (38, 40, 42) have changeable indicator devices (44, 46, 48). The indicator devices (44, 46, 48) are changed with the aid of a control device (22), for example on the basis of a schedule.