Robotic Surgery Workstation Height Positioning for Seated Ergonomics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Robotic surgery systems often lead to user fatigue due to inadequate ergonomic positioning of input devices, which can cause discomfort and reduce operational efficiency over extended periods.
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 a 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 positioned at a fixed height, then the device structure is simple, but user comfort deteriorates due to inadequate ergonomic positioning
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 between a first vertical position and a second vertical position, allowing the input device to be positioned at different heights to accommodate users of varying heights, thereby improving ergonomic comfort while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure through controlled mobility rather than complete redesign
Solution Approach 2:
The vertical position parameter of the input device is made adjustable to match different user heights. By changing the vertical position parameter between two predetermined positions, the system adapts to different user requirements without fundamentally altering the device structure, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and ergonomics
2Productivity
If the input device is positioned at a fixed height, then the device structure is simple, but operational efficiency deteriorates over extended periods
Solution Approach 1:
The platform's ability to dynamically adjust between two vertical positions enables the system to maintain optimal ergonomic positioning for different users, reducing fatigue and improving operational efficiency during extended use periods. This dynamic adjustment capability is achieved through a relatively simple mechanism that does not overly complicate the device structure
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically determines which vertical position is appropriate based on user input (e.g., user height entry or preset selections) and autonomously adjusts the platform to the correct position. This self-service capability improves operational efficiency by eliminating the need for manual positioning adjustments while keeping the control system simple
3Ease of operation
If the platform moves vertically to adjust height, then user comfort is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The platform is designed to move vertically only when necessary to accommodate different users, rather than continuously adjusting. By transitioning between two fixed vertical positions based on user requirements, the system minimizes unnecessary motion and associated energy consumption while still providing ergonomic benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The vertical movement of the platform occurs periodically when user changes are detected, rather than continuously. The platform remains stationary at the appropriate height during operation, consuming minimal energy, and only moves when a new user needs to be accommodated, thus balancing energy efficiency with user comfort
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.