Robot Arm Projector for Distortion-Free Surgical Image Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
In medical and other environments, surgeons and operators face challenges in accessing and interacting with visual information systems while performing tasks, requiring frequent gaze shifts between the operating table and display devices, which can hinder efficiency and safety.
Innovation Solution
A robot with a projector and camera integrated into its arm projects virtual input means onto an object's surface, allowing for image analysis of gestures and compensation for distortion caused by surface geometry, enabling hands-free operation and improved visual information access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If visual information is displayed on a separate screen, then information can be provided to the surgeon, but the surgeon must constantly shift gaze between the operating table and the screen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a camera as an intermediary device that captures the surgical field and transmits it to a display screen. This allows the surgeon to view surgical information on the screen without directly observing the surgical site, reducing the need for gaze shifting between the operating table and display devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent projects virtual input means and visual information onto a three-dimensional object (such as a model or the patient's body) in the surgical field. This transforms the traditional two-dimensional screen display into a three-dimensional spatial display that integrates with the surgical environment, allowing surgeons to access information without leaving the surgical field
2Ease of operation
If virtual input means are projected onto a non-planar surface, then hands-free operation is enabled, but image distortion occurs due to surface geometry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the projection parameters dynamically based on the detected surface geometry. The system adjusts projection angle, distance, and image content according to the three-dimensional characteristics of the target surface, thereby compensating for distortion and maintaining image accuracy on non-planar surfaces
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a feedback mechanism where a camera or sensor detects the actual projection on the three-dimensional surface, analyzes the distortion, and sends correction signals back to the projection device. This closed-loop control enables real-time compensation for surface geometry-induced distortion
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
Facilitates easier acquisition and interpretation of visual information, enhancing operational efficiency and safety by allowing surgeons to interact with virtual input means without gaze shifts, while compensating for image distortion for clearer projections.
Implementation Method 1
a device (18) for projecting an image onto a surface of an object
Implementation Method 2
a device, in particular attached to or integrated into the robot arm, for capturing an image of the image projected onto the surface of the object
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a robot (R), a medical work station, and a method for projecting an image (20) onto the surface of an object (P). The robot (R) comprises a robot arm (A) and a device (18) for projecting the image (20) onto the surface of the object (P), said device (18) being mounted on or integrated into the robot arm (A).