Movable Camera Trocar Linkage for Abdominal Cavity Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current minimally invasive surgical techniques lack an effective method to acquire a comprehensive image of the entire abdominal cavity during surgery, which hinders precise and safe surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A surgical trocar equipped with a movable camera system, utilizing a linkage mechanism and drive unit, allows for the insertion and positioning of cameras within the abdominal cavity to capture images, enabling the formation of a complete and accurate image of the surgical area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a single incision is used to insert multiple surgical instruments, then the incision size is reduced and recovery is improved, but the ability to acquire comprehensive images of the entire abdominal cavity is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The camera is coupled to the trocar body through a movable linkage mechanism that allows the camera to dynamically change its position and orientation within the abdominal cavity. The linkage includes movable links and joints that enable the camera to be positioned at different locations while maintaining a secure connection to the trocar body, thus acquiring comprehensive images without requiring multiple incisions
Solution Approach 2:
The camera positioning system adds spatial dimensionality by allowing movement in multiple directions (radially outward, longitudinally) from the trocar insertion point. This enables the camera to explore the entire abdominal cavity volume from a single incision point, transforming the limited linear view into a comprehensive three-dimensional imaging capability
2Loss of information
If a camera is coupled to the trocar body, then image acquisition is enabled, but the structural complexity of the trocar increases
Solution Approach 1:
The camera coupling system is divided into separate modular components: a camera module, a linkage mechanism with multiple links and joints, and a drive unit. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while simplifying the overall structure, making the system easier to manufacture, assemble, and maintain compared to an integrated complex structure
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage mechanism acts as an intermediary between the trocar body and the camera, providing a flexible connection that accommodates camera movement while maintaining structural integrity. This intermediary structure simplifies the coupling by using standard mechanical elements (links, joints, couplings) rather than requiring a complex integrated mounting system
3Loss of information
If the camera is movably coupled to the trocar body, then comprehensive imaging is achieved, but the difficulty of positioning and controlling the camera increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive unit is integrated directly into the trocar body and is configured to automatically drive the linkage mechanism to position the camera. This self-service capability allows the camera to be positioned and controlled without requiring external manipulation or complex manual operation, simplifying the control process while achieving comprehensive imaging coverage
Data Source
AI summary
Surgical trocars, and image acquisition method using the same, include a body having a passage configured to receive at least one surgical instrument, and at least one camera movably coupled to an outer wall of the body.