Medical Navigation End Effector with Integrated Camera Mount
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems lack robust automated camera systems that maintain a consistent field of view during image-guided medical procedures, limiting the choice of end effectors for robotic camera tracking systems, which can lead to increased trauma and inefficiency in surgeries due to excessive repositioning of tools and cameras.
Innovation Solution
An end effector for a medical navigation system that includes a mating component connected to a positioning arm, a handle portion with a cable cut-out, a camera mount, and a mechanical interface with a scope clamp arm, designed to securely hold and position imaging devices like videoscopes, maintaining a clear view of the surgical site without obstructing the surgeon's line of sight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional systems are used without robust automated camera systems, then device complexity is reduced, but surgical precision and field of view maintenance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the camera mount, handle portion, and positioning interface into a single integrated end effector assembly that attaches to the robotic positioning arm. This merging of components creates a unified system that maintains surgical site visualization while reducing the need for separate camera positioning devices, thereby improving surgical precision without proportionally increasing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The end effector serves as an intermediary component between the robotic positioning arm and the camera system. It provides a dedicated mounting interface and positioning mechanism that mediates the connection, allowing the camera to be precisely positioned and maintained in the field of view without requiring direct integration into the robotic arm or separate positioning equipment
2Adaptability or versatility
If excessive repositioning of tools and cameras is performed, then adaptability to different surgical views is improved, but trauma to patient and surgical efficiency worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The end effector is pre-configured with an integrated camera mount and positioning mechanism that establishes the camera's field of view before the surgical procedure begins. This preliminary setup allows the surgical site to be properly visualized from the outset, reducing the need for subsequent repositioning of cameras and tools that could cause patient trauma or interrupt the surgical flow
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic positioning arm with integrated end effector provides dynamic positioning capability, allowing the camera to be automatically adjusted and repositioned as needed during surgery without manual intervention. This dynamic system maintains optimal viewing angles and field of view throughout the procedure, adapting to different surgical requirements while minimizing physical disturbance to the patient
3Ease of operation
If manual camera positioning is used instead of automated systems, then ease of operation is improved, but productivity and surgical efficiency worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The end effector design provides multi-functionality by integrating both manual positioning capabilities through the robotic arm's controlled movement and automated positioning through the robotic system's ability to adjust the camera angle and position. This universal design allows the system to operate in manual mode for ease of operation or in automated mode for improved productivity, depending on surgical requirements
Data Source
AI summary
An end effector is provided for connecting to a positioning arm of a positioning device of a medical navigation system. The end effector comprises a mating component for connecting to an output flange of the positioning arm, a handle portion having a first end and a second end, the first end extending from the mating component, the handle portion including a cable cut-out at the first end, and a camera mount connected to the second end of the handle portion.