Robotic Laparoscopic Applicator Tip for Precise Haemostatic Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic-assisted surgery systems lack precise and intuitive control of medical devices, particularly applicators for dispensing substances like haemostatics, due to limited haptic feedback and reliance on assistant operation, which compromises accuracy and safety.
Innovation Solution
A laparoscopic applicator designed for robotic arm control, featuring a grippable tip with apex-shaped cross-section and flexible delivery tube, allowing precise spatial manipulation and substance release, with actuation via robotic arm, and optionally including a pressure source and flow control elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a manually operated syringe is used for dispensing paste, then the surgeon can directly control the dispensing, but the target site is not accessible in minimally invasive procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator is divided into a flexible delivery tube and a separate actuator unit. The actuator can be detached and reattached at different positions along the delivery tube, allowing the surgeon to control dispensing at the optimal location while maintaining minimally invasive access.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible delivery tube acts as an intermediary between the actuator and the target site. This allows the actuator to be positioned remotely while still enabling direct control of paste dispensing at the target site through the flexible tube.
2Ease of operation
If the applicator insertion is performed by the assistant, then the surgeon can focus on the surgical site, but the dispensing control is not direct
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates haptic feedback through the flexible delivery tube, allowing the surgeon to feel the resistance and position of the applicator tip. This feedback mechanism enables direct and reliable control of dispensing while the assistant handles the insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical control is replaced with a motorized actuator that can be precisely controlled by the surgeon. This substitution provides more accurate and reliable dispensing control while maintaining the minimally invasive approach.
3Manufacturing precision
If the applicator tip is made rigid for precise control, then the robotic arm can manipulate it accurately, but the delivery tube becomes less flexible
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator is segmented into a rigid tip portion for precise robotic manipulation and a flexible delivery tube portion for adaptability. This segmentation allows each part to optimize its function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the applicator have different mechanical properties. The tip is made rigid for precision control, while the delivery tube remains flexible for adaptability. This local differentiation of material properties resolves the contradiction between precision and flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a laparoscopic applicator for dispensing a substance, e.g. a substance comprising a haemostatic agent, at a selected site by means of a surgical robotic arm, the laparoscopic applicator comprising a delivery tube; and an applicator tip connected to a distal end of the delivery tube, wherein the applicator tip is configured for being controllable operated by the robotic arm by a grip section in axial extension of the delivery tube, the grip section having a perimeter transverse to the axis comprising an apex shaped section, such that the grip section is configured for being clamped and spatially manipulated by the robotic arm.