Robotic Endoscope Holding Arm for Solo Minimally Invasive Surgery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical systems for minimally invasive robotic surgery face challenges such as manual handling exertion, ergonomic issues, limited movement possibilities, increased X-ray exposure, need for a second surgeon, and complex coordination between endoscope and tools, as well as high specialization and technical complexity of robotic solutions.
Innovation Solution
A surgical system with a holding arm that attaches to the handle unit of conventional endoscopes, allowing manual or robotic control, featuring a patient-side unit for defined positioning, and integrated control elements for solo surgery, including sensors and virtual fixtures for enhanced precision and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a flexible endoscope is manually guided by the surgeon, then the surgeon can control the endoscope directly, but the surgeon experiences physical exertion and ergonomic issues while handling the handle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical handling of the endoscope with a robotic system. The robotic catheter includes automated actuators that control the endoscope's positioning, angulation, and rotation, eliminating the need for the surgeon to manually manipulate the heavy handle and control mechanisms, thus reducing physical exertion while maintaining operational control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a robotic system as an intermediary between the surgeon's intent and the endoscope manipulation. The robotic catheter acts as a mediator that translates surgical commands into precise endoscope movements, reducing the direct physical interaction and ergonomic strain on the surgeon while improving control precision.
2Ease of operation
If a robotic system is used to guide the endoscope, then manual handling exertion is reduced, but the system becomes more complex and specialized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the robotic catheter system to perform multiple functions: it can guide the endoscope, position tools, control angulation, and manage rotation all through a single integrated platform. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized devices and simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining advanced capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the endoscope guidance, tool positioning, and control mechanisms into a single integrated robotic catheter system. By merging these functions into one unified platform, the system reduces complexity compared to having separate robotic systems for each function, while still providing comprehensive control capabilities.
3Reliability
If the surgeon holds the handle and uses levers for angulation and rotation, then direct control is possible, but coordination between endoscope and tools becomes complex requiring a second surgeon
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual coordination of multiple controls (handle, levers, rotation) with an automated robotic control system. The robotic catheter uses integrated sensors and actuators to coordinate endoscope positioning and tool manipulation automatically, eliminating the need for complex manual coordination and reducing the requirement for additional surgical personnel.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional manual endoscope handling is used, then the procedure can be performed with simple equipment, but movement possibilities are limited and precision is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic robotic catheter system with multiple degrees of freedom that can adapt its movement in real-time. The system includes actuators for axial movement, rotation, and angulation that can be dynamically adjusted during the procedure, providing enhanced versatility and movement possibilities compared to static manual handling while maintaining operational simplicity through automated control.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical system for minimally invasive robotic surgery, including a holding arm having a holder for the gripping unit of a conventional endoscope, and a patient-side unit which can be fastened in the vicinity of the patient and allows a defined position of the access to the patient.