Robot Arm Motion Switching for Console-Free Laparoscopic Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional surgery supporting robots for laparoscopic surgery face challenges such as large apparatus size, difficulty in optimizing patient-robot positional relationships, interference with medical staff, and complex console manipulation, which hinder efficient operation and flexibility in the operating room.
Innovation Solution
A surgery supporting apparatus that controls the posture of a first surgical instrument using a second surgical instrument, employing a robot arm with multiple processors and memory to switch between motion modes, allowing control via the second surgical instrument or direct manipulation of the robot arm, eliminating the need for a console.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a console type surgery supporting robot is used to control multiple surgical instruments, then the functionality and control capability are improved, but the apparatus size becomes large and installation flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the console from the surgery supporting robot system, separating the control function from the physical robot structure. The control unit can be remotely operated without being physically present in the operating room, allowing the robot arm to be smaller and more flexible while maintaining full control capability through wireless or remote communication interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal control interface that can operate the robot arm through multiple methods (voice commands, touch panel, foot switch). This multi-functional control system replaces the need for a large dedicated console, allowing the same control unit to serve various operational needs without requiring substantial physical infrastructure.
2Ease of operation
If a console is installed in the operating room for manipulating the robot, then the control capability is improved, but the operating room space becomes crowded and communication with nurses is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The control interface is extracted from the physical operating room space and can be accessed remotely. The touch panel and voice recognition systems allow operators to control the robot arm without occupying valuable operating room space, maintaining ease of operation while preserving space for medical staff movement and patient care activities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary control system (touch panel, voice recognition, foot switch) that mediates between the operator and the robot arm. This intermediary interface can be positioned optimally without requiring a large dedicated console structure, enabling effective control while maintaining open communication channels and adequate space for nursing activities.
3Ease of operation
If voice manipulation is used to control the robot arm, then the ease of operation is improved, but the precision and reliability of controlling complex surgical instruments is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic control system that adapts to different operational requirements. The control mode can switch between voice commands for simple positioning and more precise control methods (touch panel, foot switch) for delicate surgical maneuvers. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain ease of operation for routine tasks while ensuring precision when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that allow the operator to verify and correct voice-activated commands. The touch panel interface provides visual feedback and confirmation, allowing the operator to review voice commands before execution and make precise adjustments if needed, thereby maintaining both ease of operation and control precision.
4Volume of stationary object
If a single robot arm is used to hold only an endoscope, then the apparatus size is reduced, but the operational area is insufficient and interference with medical staff occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic robot arm system with adjustable degrees of freedom and reconfigurable end-effectors. The single robot arm can dynamically adapt its configuration and operational range to accommodate different surgical scenarios, providing sufficient operational flexibility without requiring multiple fixed robot arms or a large apparatus structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgery supporting apparatus is capable of controlling a posture of a surgical instrument that is inserted into a body cavity and mechanically drivable. The apparatus includes a robot arm that can control the posture of the surgical instrument, which is attached to the robot arm via a gimbal mechanism.