Robotic Surgical Tool Coupler for Fast Changes Without Recalibration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Robotically-assisted surgical procedures face inefficiencies due to frequent tool changes, which increase procedure time and require recalibration, affecting accuracy.

Innovation Solution

A quick connect mechanism in the form of a coupler system with a base and actuated collar that securely attaches various tools to the robotic surgical arm, reducing tool change time and maintaining accurate positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional tool changing methods are used during robotically-assisted surgical procedures, then tools can be replaced, but procedure time increases and recalibration is required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprocedure efficiencyVSAvoidtool change time

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling system is divided into separate modular components: a coupling mechanism with a quick-release interface, a tool holder, and a robotic arm interface. This segmentation allows individual components to be quickly exchanged without affecting the entire system, enabling rapid tool changes during surgical procedures without requiring full recalibration of the robotic arm.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling mechanism incorporates dynamic elements including a movable collar that can be actuated between locked and unlocked positions, and a spring-loaded retention system. These dynamic features enable quick tool attachment and detachment while maintaining secure holding during use, significantly reducing tool change time compared to static fastening methods.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional tool changing methods are used, then tools can be exchanged, but accuracy is affected due to recalibration requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetool interchangeabilityVSAvoidpositioning accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling mechanism is pre-configured with precision-machined reference surfaces and alignment features that establish accurate tool positioning before the surgical procedure begins. Quick-change tools are pre-aligned during manufacturing, allowing them to be exchanged during surgery without requiring recalibration, thereby maintaining positioning accuracy throughout the procedure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If frequent tool changes are performed, then various surgical tasks can be completed, but procedure time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesurgical task capabilityVSAvoidsurgical procedure speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling mechanism is designed as a universal interface that can accommodate multiple different surgical tool types through a single standardized attachment system. Various tools with different functions (drilling, reaming, implant placement) can all be secured to the same coupling mechanism, allowing frequent tool changes without requiring multiple specialized coupling systems, thereby maintaining high surgical task capability while improving procedure speed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4104792A1Quick connect for robotic surgical instruments

Publication Date: 2022.12.21 ORTHOSOFT ULC

Figure 1A
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Figure 2

AI summary

A coupler can connect one or more instruments to a robotic surgical arm. The coupler can include a base and an actuator. The base can be securable to the robotic surgical arm. The actuator can be operable to release or secure the stem to the base and the robotic surgical arm.