Quick-Release End Effectors for Robotic Surgical Tool Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic surgical systems face limitations in minimally invasive procedures due to the need to remove and insert new surgical tools through access ports, leading to restricted scope and complexity, and are hindered by size, cost, and limited sensory and mobility capabilities.
Innovation Solution
Development of quick-release end effectors and arms for medical devices that allow easy coupling and decoupling, utilizing magnetic and mechanical couplings to facilitate efficient tool exchange without disrupting the surgical field.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional surgical tools are used with fixed access ports, then the surgical procedure can be performed, but the scope and complexity are limited due to the need to remove and insert new tools
Solution Approach 1:
The surgical system is divided into separate modular components: a reusable robotic arm with access port and interchangeable end effectors. This segmentation allows the end effector to be detached and replaced without removing the entire surgical tool or accessing the body cavity again, thereby expanding procedural versatility while minimizing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic arm with fixed access port serves as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple different end effectors through standardized coupling mechanisms. This multi-functionality allows various surgical tools to be used through the same access port, expanding the scope and complexity of procedures that can be performed without requiring multiple access ports or tool removals.
2Productivity
If robotic surgical systems are developed to replace standard laparoscopic tools, then operational efficiency can be improved, but the system size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic surgical system is segmented into a compact reusable arm assembly and interchangeable end effectors. This modular approach reduces the overall system size by allowing only the necessary components to be present in the surgical field at any given time, while maintaining high operational efficiency through automated control and precise positioning of the compact robotic arm.
3Productivity
If quick-release mechanisms are implemented for end effector coupling, then tool exchange efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-release coupling mechanism replaces complex multi-step mechanical fastening systems with a simplified magnetic coupling system. The magnetic attraction provides sufficient holding force for surgical operations while allowing for rapid detachment when a release mechanism is activated, thereby improving tool exchange efficiency without requiring overly complex mechanical structures.
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 seamless tool changes during procedures, enhancing the operational efficiency and versatility of robotic surgical systems by reducing the need for port access and minimizing contamination risks.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic coupling component configured to magnetically couple the end effector to the arm and configured to enable release of the end effector from the arm
Data Source
AI summary
The various embodiments disclosed herein relate to arms or forearms of medical devices that are configured to couple with quick-release end effectors, quick-release end effectors for use with such medical devices, and arms or forearms coupled to such quick-release end effectors. Certain forearms and end effectors have magnetic couplings, while others have mechanical couplings, and further implementations have both magnetic and mechanical couplings.