Robotic Workstation Input Positioning for Seated Ergonomic Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Robotic system workstations, such as those in surgical robotic systems, often lead to user fatigue due to inadequate ergonomic positioning of input devices, which can cause discomfort during extended use.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for dynamically adjusting the vertical position of an input device on a workstation to match the ergonomic height of a seated user, using a platform that moves vertically based on input signals from the user's hand controller, allowing the user to select and save preferred heights for personalized comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the input device is fixed at a standard height, then the device structure is simple, but user comfort deteriorates during extended use
Solution Approach 1:
The input device is mounted on a platform that can dynamically adjust its vertical position based on the seated user's height. The platform moves vertically along guide rails to position the hand controller at the appropriate height for each user, transforming a static fixed-height device into a dynamic adjustable-height system that adapts to different users while maintaining simple individual operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically determines the user's ergonomic height by tracking the vertical position of the hand controller when the user places it in an initialization position. The processor calculates the required platform adjustment and executes it autonomously without requiring manual intervention from the user, making the complex adjustment process transparent and self-service oriented
2Ease of operation
If the input device is adjusted to individual ergonomic height, then user comfort is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously receives input signals from the hand controller representing its vertical position within the input device workspace. By monitoring the hand controller position when the user places it in the initialization position, the system obtains feedback about the user's body dimensions and automatically calculates the appropriate platform height adjustment, creating a closed-loop feedback system that adapts to individual users
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an automated electromechanical system. The processor determines the vertical offset required and controls the platform's vertical movement automatically, substituting complex manual adjustment procedures with an intelligent system that uses sensor feedback and automated control to achieve ergonomic positioning
3Ease of operation
If the platform moves to position the input device at ergonomic height, then user fatigue is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The workstation is segmented into a movable platform and a stationary base. The platform, which carries the input device, is separated from the base and can move independently along vertical guide rails. This segmentation allows the platform to be positioned at different heights while maintaining system stability, reducing user fatigue without requiring complete system redesign
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces vertical dimensionality to the input device positioning by enabling the platform to move along the vertical axis (Z-axis) in addition to the horizontal X and Y axes. This dimensional expansion allows ergonomic adjustment for users of different heights while maintaining the core functionality of the input device in the horizontal plane
Data Source
AI summary
A method for positioning an input device of a workstation for use by a seated user in controlling a robotic surgery system is disclosed. The input device is operable to generate input signals representing a position of a hand controller moveable within an input device workspace. The method involves determining a vertical position of the hand controller within the input device workspace for an input signal received from the input device while a seated user's hand is grasping the hand controller in an initialization position defined with respect to the user's body. The method also involves determining a user ergonomic height of the input device based on the vertical position of the hand controller at the initialization position, and causing a platform of the workstation on which the input device is mounted to move vertically with respect to a base of the workstation to position the input device at the ergonomic height.