Surgical Robot User Interface Simplification
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing user interfaces for surgical robots are complex, requiring multiple tools for manipulating the position and posture of the platform, which can lead to confusion and increased complexity in operations.
Innovation Solution
A user interface with a single joystick for inputting manipulation information, along with mode selection buttons to choose operating modes, simplifies the manipulation process by consolidating inputs and reducing the number of tools needed, while ensuring accurate operation through a trigger switch for activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple manipulation tools are provided for controlling different aspects of platform movement, then the system can perform comprehensive control functions, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to the increased number of tools and potential user confusion
Solution Approach 1:
The single joystick is designed to perform multiple functions by combining mode selection buttons with the joystick itself. The joystick can control horizontal movement, vertical movement, and rotation depending on the selected mode, eliminating the need for separate manipulation tools for each function while maintaining comprehensive control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple separate manipulation tools (horizontal control, vertical control, rotation control) into a single joystick interface. By combining these controls with mode selection buttons, the system consolidates what would have been multiple independent tools into one unified manipulation device
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple manipulation tools are provided for comprehensive platform control, then various movement functions can be achieved, but the ease of operation worsens due to increased complexity and risk of wrong tool usage
Solution Approach 1:
The single joystick serves as a universal control device that can perform horizontal movement, vertical movement, and rotation functions. By making the joystick multi-functional through mode selection, the system improves ease of operation while maintaining comprehensive movement control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple control functions into a single joystick interface, reducing the cognitive load and physical effort required to operate the system. This merging of functions eliminates the need for users to switch between multiple tools, thereby improving ease of operation
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical robot includes: a plurality of manipulator arms; a platform to which the plurality of manipulator arms are coupled; a positioner configured to change the position and posture of the platform; a controller configured to control the positioner; and a user interface. The user interface includes: first manipulation tools each configured to receive an input of manipulation which selects one of a plurality of operating modes for changing the position and posture of the platform; and a single second manipulation tool configured to receive an input of manipulation information regarding the position and posture. The controller generates a command regarding the position and posture of the platform based on the acquired manipulation information and the selected operating mode and operates the positioner based on the generated command.