Surgical Input Assignment for Conflict-Free Auxiliary Function Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic surgical systems face challenges in dynamically and intuitively assigning control over auxiliary functions to auxiliary input devices based on the functional capabilities of surgical instruments, leading to conflicts and inefficiencies when multiple instruments with the same auxiliary functions are used simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
The system automatically assigns auxiliary input devices to control auxiliary functions based on the position of the input device and the user's hand operating the master input device, allowing for dynamic reconfiguration during surgical procedures without pre-assigned static mappings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If auxiliary functions are pre-assigned to individual auxiliary input devices, then the system provides stable and predictable control, but the system lacks flexibility when multiple instruments with the same auxiliary functions are used simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic assignment of auxiliary functions to auxiliary input devices based on the currently active surgical instrument. Instead of static pre-assignment, the system automatically updates which auxiliary function is controlled by which auxiliary input device depending on which instrument is currently in use. This resolves the contradiction by providing both flexibility (adaptability to different instruments) and simplicity (automatic management without manual configuration complexity)
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple surgical instruments with the same auxiliary functions are used simultaneously, then the system provides comprehensive surgical capability, but conflicts arise in auxiliary function control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the auxiliary function assignment specific to each active instrument context. When multiple instruments with similar functions are used, the system determines which instrument is currently active and assigns the auxiliary function to the corresponding auxiliary input device based on that specific context. This ensures reliable, conflict-free operation by preventing simultaneous conflicting assignments while maintaining comprehensive multi-instrument capability
3Ease of manufacture
If static pre-assignment of auxiliary functions is used, then the system is simple to implement, but the user experience deteriorates when instrument configurations change
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by making the system automatically reassign auxiliary functions based on the currently active instrument without requiring user intervention. The system monitors which instrument is active and automatically updates the auxiliary function assignments, eliminating the need for users to manually reconfigure settings when instrument configurations change. This maintains ease of operation while adapting to changing surgical needs
Data Source
AI summary
A method of assigning an auxiliary input device to control a surgical instrument in a computer-assisted surgical system includes detecting a first surgical instrument coupled to a first manipulator interface assembly of a computer-assisted surgical system, the first manipulator interface assembly being controlled by a first input device. The method further includes detecting an initial relative position of the first input device and either assigning control of an auxiliary function of the first surgical instrument to a first auxiliary input device disposed in a left position relative to a second auxiliary input device if the initial relative position of the first input device is detected to be at a left position relative to a second input device or assigning may also include assigning control of an auxiliary function of the first surgical instrument to the second auxiliary input device disposed in a right position relative to the first auxiliary input device if the initial relative position the first input device is detected to be at a right position relative to the second input device.