Co-Manipulation Surgical Coupler for Sterile Instrument Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laparoscopic surgical systems face challenges in managing vision and access, with complex robot-assisted systems being expensive, space-consuming, and requiring unique instruments, while manual solutions are impractical and require extensive manual interaction.
Innovation Solution
A co-manipulation surgical system with a robot arm and coupler mechanism that allows for removable attachment of surgical instruments, enabling seamless positioning and manipulation through a coupler body that transitions between open and closed states, allowing for rotational movement while inhibiting longitudinal movement, and includes features like a switch, clamp, and magnetic holder for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If complex robot-assisted systems are used, then surgical precision and automation are improved, but system cost, footprint, and instrument compatibility are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential robotic assistance function from complex robot-assisted systems and implements it through a simple, lightweight robot arm that can be easily positioned and controlled. This extraction eliminates the need for expensive, space-consuming complex systems while retaining the core benefit of robotic assistance for surgical precision and automation.
2Measurement precision
If complex robot-assisted systems are used, then surgical precision is improved, but space consumption is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a disposable sterile adapter that couples the surgical instrument to the robot arm. This disposable component eliminates the need for expensive, complex robot-assisted systems with large footprints, while maintaining surgical precision through the specialized coupling mechanism designed for accurate instrument positioning and control.
3Device complexity
If manual solutions are used, then system simplicity is improved, but ease of operation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The sterile adapter incorporates a self-aligning coupling mechanism with tapered surfaces that automatically guide and align the surgical instrument shaft with the coupler body lumen during insertion. This self-service alignment feature eliminates the need for extensive manual adjustment and interaction, while maintaining system simplicity through the straightforward coupling design.
4Adaptability or versatility
If removable coupling is used, then adaptability is improved, but reliability of attachment is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs tapered surfaces (conical geometry) in the coupling mechanism. The tapered outer surface of the shaft and the corresponding tapered inner surface of the lumen create a self-aligning, secure fit that ensures reliable attachment. The conical geometry provides mechanical interlocking and automatic alignment, maintaining attachment security while enabling adaptability through the standardized coupling interface.
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
Facilitates efficient and flexible use of standard surgical instruments, reducing the need for complex robot-assisted systems and manual intervention, while ensuring secure and sterile attachment during laparoscopic procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The holder may include a magnet, such that the repulsion magnet applies a magnetic force to the magnet to thereby cause the holder to be biased in the direction toward the lumen
Data Source
AI summary
Co-manipulation robotic systems are described herein that may be used for assisting with laparoscopic surgical procedures. The co-manipulation robotic systems allow a surgeon to use commercially-available surgical tools while providing benefits associated with surgical robotics. Advantageously, the surgical tools may be seamlessly coupled to the robot arms using a disposable coupler while the reusable portions of the robot arm remain in a sterile drape. Further, the co-manipulation robotic system may operate in multiple modes to enhance usability and safety, while allowing the surgeon to position the instrument directly with the instrument handle and further maintain the desired position of the instrument using the robot arm.