Robotic Surgical Drive Assembly for Remote Instrument Deflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic surgical systems lack efficient mechanisms for controlling surgical instruments from a distance, particularly in robotically assisted surgeries, which can lead to awkward arm motions and reduced ease of use for medical professionals.
Innovation Solution
A robotic surgical system with a control system and robotic arms that allow for precise control of surgical instruments, including scopes and basketing systems, from an ergonomic position, using electromagnetic fields and input devices for enhanced imaging and guidance, enabling single-operator control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If robotic surgical systems use traditional mechanical control mechanisms, then structural simplicity is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates due to awkward arm motions and difficulty in controlling instruments from a distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical control linkages with an electromagnetic field-based drive system. A drive assembly containing a magnet assembly generates electromagnetic fields that interact with a driven assembly's magnet to produce rotational motion of the drive shaft, eliminating complex mechanical transmissions and improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a flexible coupling element as an intermediary between the drive shaft and the instrument. This flexible coupling transmits rotational motion while accommodating misalignment and reducing mechanical stress, thereby improving ease of operation without requiring direct rigid mechanical connection.
2Measurement precision
If robotic arms are positioned close to the patient for precise control, then control precision is improved, but physical strain on the operator increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic drive system allows the operator to control surgical instruments from a distance using hand input devices that generate electromagnetic signals. This substitution eliminates the need for the operator to physically position robotic arms close to the patient, reducing physical strain while maintaining control precision through electromagnetic field interaction.
3Productivity
If traditional servo mechanisms are used to move manipulators, then device complexity is kept moderate, but productivity deteriorates due to reduced surgical efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional servo mechanisms with an electromagnetic drive assembly that directly generates rotational motion through field interaction between magnet assemblies. This substitution improves surgical efficiency by enabling more precise and responsive instrument control, while the modular electromagnetic design keeps overall device complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic drive system provides dynamic control capabilities with rapid response times and precise positioning. The ability to dynamically adjust electromagnetic field strength and direction enables improved surgical efficiency through faster and more accurate instrument manipulation compared to traditional servo mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a housing and a first elongate member extending distally from the housing to a first distal end. A proximal portion of the first elongate member defines a longitudinal axis. The apparatus also includes a first drive input rotatably retained by the housing. The first drive input is configured to deflect the first distal end relative to the longitudinal axis. The apparatus further includes a second elongate member. The apparatus also includes a second drive input rotatably retained by the housing. The apparatus further includes a feed assembly configured to translate the second elongate member along the longitudinal axis in response to rotation of the second drive input.