Skin-Attachable Surgical Camera for Hands-Free Field-of-View Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing minimally invasive surgical tools lack hands-free operation capabilities, which can lead to discomfort and reduced efficiency for surgeons during procedures.
Innovation Solution
A surgical camera with a base attachable to a patient's skin surface, a connector extending through an opening, and a manipulator allowing movement of the image capturing element relative to the base, enabling hands-free operation and improved positioning through motors and wireless communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a surgical camera is used during minimally invasive surgery, then imaging capability is provided, but the surgeon's hands are occupied requiring manual adjustment and positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The surgical camera system performs self-positioning and self-adjustment through automated manipulation mechanisms that move the image capturing element relative to the base without requiring surgeon intervention. The manipulator automatically adjusts the camera field of view to maintain optimal imaging during surgery.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera system incorporates a manipulator that enables dynamic movement of the image capturing element relative to the base, allowing the camera to adapt its position and orientation during surgery. This dynamic capability transforms a static camera into an actively adjusting imaging system.
2Measurement precision
If the image capturing element is positioned inside the body cavity, then internal anatomy can be visualized, but the camera requires complex manipulation mechanisms for positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system is divided into distinct functional modules: a base for external positioning, a connector for transmission, and an image capturing element for internal imaging. The manipulator is further segmented into multiple manipulation elements that can independently adjust different aspects of camera positioning, allowing precise field of view control through coordinated movement of separate components.
Data Source
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AI summary
A surgical camera comprising a base, an image capturing element defining a field of view and configured to exchange image data with a monitor, a connector extending between the image capturing element and the base, and a manipulator configured for movement of the image capturing element relative to the base. To facilitate free hands of the surgeon, the surgical camera forms a contact surface which can be attached to an outer skin surface of the patient and thereby fix the camera to the patient.