Surgical Robot Power Architecture for Selective Load Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical robotic systems face inflexibility in power management, as single shut-off switch architectures fail to allow selective activation and deactivation of loads, and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) drain batteries when unpowered for prolonged periods due to continuous operation.
Innovation Solution
A power management architecture that enables independent activation and deactivation of powered components, with communication between power supply components and UPSs to turn off UPSs based on load demands, and includes a power ingress module to disconnect alternating current inputs from UPSs, allowing for efficient power distribution and preservation of battery charge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single shut-off switch architecture is used to control multiple loads, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to selectively activate and deactivate individual loads is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power supply architecture into separate modular units, each with its own shut-off switch and UPS device. Instead of a single centralized switch controlling all loads, the system segments power control into independent modules that can be individually activated or deactivated, enabling selective load control while maintaining manageable complexity through standardization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension of control by introducing individual shut-off switches for each load module alongside the common main switch. This creates a hierarchical control structure with two levels: the main switch for overall system power and individual switches for selective load control, transforming a single-dimension control approach into a multi-dimensional control architecture.
2Reliability
If UPS devices remain in running condition during AC mains disconnection, then power continuity is maintained, but battery charge is depleted over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the control device detect AC mains disconnection and proactively command the UPS devices to transition to shutdown mode before battery depletion occurs. This advance action preserves battery charge for extended periods while maintaining the ability to provide immediate power continuity when needed, as the UPS can quickly restart when AC power is restored.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic control of UPS operation states, allowing the system to transition between running condition and shutdown mode based on real-time AC mains availability. The UPS devices are no longer statically kept in running condition but dynamically adjust their state according to system needs, optimizing both power continuity and battery preservation.
3Loss of energy
If individual UPS devices are controlled based on load demands, then energy efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases due to communication requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the control device monitors AC mains connection status and load power states, then uses this information to command appropriate UPS shutdown or operation. The system continuously receives feedback on power availability and load conditions, adjusting UPS operation accordingly to minimize energy waste while maintaining necessary power supply functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical robotic system includes a robotic arm having at least one surgical instrument and a control device coupled to the robotic arm and configured to control the robotic arm, the control device including one or more components. The surgical robotic system also includes a power supply having: a tower power supply chassis configured to supply first direct current to the robotic arm; a power distribution unit configured to supply second direct current to the one or more components; a first uninterruptable power supply device coupled to the tower power supply chassis and configured to receive a first alternating current from a first alternating current input; and a second uninterruptable power supply device coupled to the power distribution unit and configured to receive a second alternating current from a second alternating current input.