Single-Hand Surgical Control Interface for Intuitive Tool Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical device control units for minimally invasive surgery lack intuitive and precise control over the position and function of surgical tools, requiring significant effort and time for surgeons to maneuver and position instruments within anatomically constrained body spaces.
Innovation Solution
A control unit with a user interface that includes a pivotal support for the palm, a restraint for the back of the hand, and levers operable by the fingers, allowing simultaneous control of the medical device's angle, deflection, and actuation using natural hand movements, with a drive unit incorporating motors and control wires for precise operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional control interfaces are used for medical devices, then device control is achieved, but the control lacks intuitiveness and precision requiring significant effort and time from surgeons
Solution Approach 1:
The control interface is segmented into three distinct zones: a first zone engageable by the palm for controlling device position and orientation, a second zone engageable by fingers for controlling effector end position, and a third zone for additional control functions. This segmentation allows intuitive mapping of hand movements to device operations, reducing the time and effort required for precise control.
2Measurement precision
If multiple separate controls are used for position and function control, then precise control is achieved, but the operation becomes complex and requires multiple hands
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple control functions are merged into a single integrated control interface that can be operated with one hand. The interface combines position control, orientation control, and effector end control in one unified structure, reducing operational complexity while maintaining precision through the distinct engageable zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The control interface is designed as a multi-functional unit where a single device structure serves multiple control purposes. The first engageable zone controls device position and orientation, the second zone controls effector end position, and the third zone provides additional control functions, all within one interface that operates with a single hand.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional interfaces are used, then basic control functions are achieved, but simultaneous control over multiple functions is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The control interface is divided into functionally independent engageable zones that can be operated simultaneously by different parts of the hand. The first zone controlled by the palm, second zone by fingers, and third zone provide independent control over device position, effector end position, and additional functions respectively, enabling simultaneous multi-function control while maintaining ease of operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables surgeons to operate surgical tools with greater natural maneuverability and precision, allowing single-handed control of multiple functions, reducing effort and learning time, while maintaining precise control over the tool's positioning and actuation.
Implementation Method 1
a restraint being pivotally attached to the first interface and having an element capable of elastically deforming to apply a restraining force to a back of the hand
Data Source
AI summary
A control unit for a medical device that includes a palm interface engageable by a palm of a hand and a restraint capable of elastically deforming to apply a restraining force to the dorsum of the hand and a finger interface engageable by one or more fingers of said hand.