Positioning Indicator for Robotic Arm Base Repositioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic systems for surgical procedures face challenges in efficiently repositioning the base of a remotely controllable arm to optimize the position and orientation of surgical tools, particularly during manual repositioning.
Innovation Solution
A surgical system that includes a positioning indicator and a processor to direct manual repositioning of the base, while maintaining the position and orientation of the distal portion of the remotely controllable arm, using indicators such as lights or sensors to guide the operator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If manual repositioning of the base is performed without guidance, then the base can be repositioned, but the time required for repositioning increases and the precision of the surgical tool position deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides real-time visual feedback through indicator lights that guide the operator during manual repositioning. The lights indicate the current status of the base position relative to the optimal position, enabling the operator to adjust the base systematically. This feedback mechanism reduces repositioning time while maintaining precision by allowing incremental adjustments toward the target position.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning indicator system acts as an intermediary between the operator and the base repositioning task. The indicator lights translate complex positioning requirements into simple visual cues, mediating the interaction and guiding the operator through the repositioning process without requiring direct manipulation of complex control systems.
2Productivity
If the base is manually repositioned without automated guidance, then repositioning flexibility is maintained, but the productivity of the surgical system decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The visual feedback from indicator lights makes the manual repositioning process more intuitive and efficient. Operators can quickly understand the current state and make informed adjustments, improving productivity while maintaining operational simplicity. The feedback loop enables faster convergence to the optimal position without requiring complex automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-guided repositioning where the operator uses the visual cues from the indicator lights to independently control the base movement. This self-service approach improves productivity by eliminating the need for external intervention or complex control procedures, while keeping the operation simple and intuitive.
3Reliability
If the distal portion of the arm is actively controlled during base repositioning, then the surgical tool position is maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into independent functional modules: base positioning control and distal portion position maintenance. By separating these functions, the system can maintain the surgical tool position during base repositioning without requiring a monolithic complex control system. Each module operates semi-independently, simplifying the overall control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The processor acts as an intermediary that coordinates between the base repositioning control and the distal portion position maintenance. It receives input from the base positioning system and automatically adjusts the distal portion control to compensate for base movement, maintaining tool position without requiring direct complex coupling between control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A robotic system includes a base movable relative to a floor surface and a controllable arm extending from the base. The arm is configured to support and move a tool. The arm has a powered joint operable to position and/or orient the tool. The robotic system further includes a positioning indicator. A processor operates the positioning indicator to direct a manual repositioning of the base relative to the floor surface while the processor is operating the powered joint to maintain the position and/or orientation of the tool during the manual repositioning.